Adopted by Board of Directors on February 27, 2003 Revised January 27, 2005, February 24, 2005, April 26, 2007

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 What is CMAC
Background, educational access, community access, mission and vision statements, office hours and location, board, staff

Chapter 2 Membership Eligibility and Benefits
Individual, service alternatives, nonprofit, educational members, non-members’ rights

Chapter 3 CMAC Programs: What’s Allowed? What’s Not?
Introduction, commercial content, libel and slander, obscenity, copyright, adult programming, safe harbor hours, nonprofits, political programs, funded programs, underwriting guidelines, CMAC Productions and Partnerships

Chapter 4 Getting Started
Prerequisites, Classes, Certification, Waivers

Chapter 5 Using CMAC’s Facility and Services
Program proposals, rules relating to use of field and studio equipment, reservations and cancellation

Chapter 6 Scheduling and Playback Requirements
Request for Playback, closing graphics, Program Submittal Deadlines and Requirements DVDs, technical requirements, program length, cancellations and no shows

Chapter 7 Program Categories
Access Productions, Local Productions, CMAC Productions, Imports, Series

Chapter 8 Playback Priorities, Policies, and Procedures
Priorities and Procedures

Chapter 9 Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct, Consequences of Violations, Appeal of Disciplinary Action,
Unlawful Harassment and Discrimination Policy, Workplace Violence Policy

CHAPTER 1 WHAT IS CMAC?

Background

CMAC is the acronym for the South Coast Community Media Access Center (CMAC), a non-profit corporation that came into existence on January 1, 2003 to manage both Public Access (Channel 17) and Educational Access (Channel 21) in the cable franchise areas served by Cox Communication.  While that remains our official name, we are also known as The Santa Barbara Channels.   Our two channels are available in the 68,000 area homes that subscribe to basic cable television, extending from Carpinteria, through Santa Barbara and up through Goleta, the beautiful south coast of Santa Barbara County.

These channels have existed in our community for more than two decades.  Public Access was managed by Cox; the education channel was housed at UCSB and programmed by a consortium of local educators. The two channels were spun off to a nonprofit through recent franchise negotiations with local governments.  CMAC’s goal is to expand the focus and improve the content of each of these valuable community resources.

Organizations, just like human beings, change, evolve, and adapt.  CMAC is an evolving organization.  This Handbook, and our operating rules and policies, are a living document, one that will also change.  The intent is to provide rules that are reasonable, clear, fair and which can be fairly enforced.

Community Access Channel (17)

What is often referred to as Public Access (Channel 17), we will refer to as Community Access.  This channel (17) will continue to be a First Amendment beacon, a channel whose only limitations are that programming be non-commercial and not obscene, as defined by applicable laws.  One goal of this Handbook will be to remove unnecessary barriers to production.  We want to assist local producers to create more and better programming.

CMAC commits to looking for ways, through technology, staffing, training, and services to expand the use and breadth of the channel to reach the entire community.  As technology and digital delivery systems change, we will also hope to continue to change and evolve. Our intent is to make Channel 17 a community channel, one that reflects the diversity of viewpoints and interests in the area.

The rules included in this document are important.  The equipment, facilities, and use of channel airtime are a shared community resource, administered by CMAC.  The purpose of the rules is to treat people fairly and equitably, to maintain safety, and to preserve these shared resources.  The First Amendment right applies to program content.  The use of CMAC’s equipment, facilities, and resources is not a right, but a privilege.

SBTV21- Culture, Arts and Education (21)

Channel 21 is a channel that focuses on the broad definition of education and incorporates culture and arts.  Programming shall be commercial free, although PBS style underwriting will be accepted.  Programs will primarily come from local educational institutions, but will also feature productions by SB Channels staff and selected other programs that station management believe fits the purpose of this channel. The mission of SBTV21/Culture/Arts/Educaton is to be a mecca for local culture, arts and educational programs, to serve organizations providing such content, and viewers wanting to enjoy this content, to educate our community while serving the larger  community on the South Coast.

CMAC Mission Statement

Mission statements succinctly explain why an organization exists.   Mission statements are important because they guide both daily decisions and long-term goals.

CMAC’s Mission is to provide citizens with access to television and other electronic media resources in order to facilitate public dialogue, free speech and participatory democracy; foster local creativity, education and culture; and reflect our diverse community.

CMAC’s Vision Statement                                                                                                           A vision statement looks to the future and articulates how an organization wants to be perceived, what they want their legacy to be.
CMAC’s vision is that we are a valued and integral part of the cultural, social and educational life in our diverse community through effective use of our media resources.
Office Location/Office Hours
CMAC is located at 414 E. Carrillo Street, Santa Barbara.  The business and office hours will be determined by the Executive Director and posted at the facility.

The CMAC facility will also be closed on the following dates for all services: 

New Years Day
Martin Luther King Day
Presidents’ Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving Day and the day following
Christmas Day.

When a holiday falls on a Saturday, it is usually observed on the preceding Friday; a holiday that falls on a Sunday is usually observed on the following Monday. The facility may be closed on other dates as determined by station management.

The Board of Directors                                                                                                         CMAC has an approved set of bylaws that determine how the organization operates and governs itself.  The bylaws authorize a specific number of board members, including, designated slots for active public access producers and three ex-officio non-voting positions for cable company and government representation.
Board meetings are generally held on the fourth Thursday of a month, but will not be held every month, and sometimes will occur on a different day of the month. All Board meetings and all committee meetings are open to the public.  Agendas will be posted at the Access Center 72 hours in advance of meetings.  Minutes of meetings are available as public documents.
A list of current Board members is available on the website:  www.sbchannels.tv

Staff

CMAC staff will treat members in a courteous, client-oriented fashion and assist members in fulfilling their production goals. CMAC staff will also be engaged in productions for the channel.   CMAC staff will follow the same Code of Conduct (see Chapter 9) that applies to community members.

In the absence of the Executive Director, the Operations Director shall be in charge of any normal daily decision involving members and producers. If neither of them is available, the Production Director is in charge.  In the absence of the Executive Director, and in the event that an important policy issue arises, the Operations or Production Director shall consult with the Chair of the Board of Directors

Membership is required in CMAC in order to utilize video production services and to submit programs on either channel.

You must be a member and be certified in equipment to use any of CMAC’s equipment, either in the facility or in the field. You must be a member to participate in CMAC’s training and workshops.  And you must be certified by CMAC staff in specific equipment in order to use it. 

Individual Membership is open to any person residing in the CMAC service area, the South Coast region of Santa Barbara County, from Carpinteria through Goleta.  Those applying for membership may be required to submit proof of local residency (e.g. a utility bill or driver’s license), current contact information, and a local address and either phone number or e-mail address.

Those requesting memberships who are under the age of 18 must obtain written parental consent or that of a guardian.  The parent or guardian must assume, in writing, all legal and financial responsibilities for the actions of the minor.

The annual individual membership fee will be set by the Board of Directors.

Individual members may use the following services:

• Production classes
• Access to production equipment
• Cablecast of programming produced locally or outside of the South Coast area
• Complete creative control of program content, and production rights
• Internship positions available through local educational institutions
• Eligibility to apply for CMAC Service Alternatives.

Service Alternatives are available in lieu of paying fees for any CMAC activity that requires a fee.  Individual members who request service alternatives for membership must provide three hours of volunteer work.  Service alternatives are also available in lieu of payments for classes.  The service alternative rate is computed at $8.00 per hour.

CMAC staff shall designate all volunteer assignments; it may include crewing a studio or remote program, assisting at the front desk to welcome and escort guests, or other appropriate duties depending upon CMAC’s needs and the member’s skills.

Organizational memberships are available for nonprofit corporations, educational institutions, and other local organizations at a yearly fee as determined by the Board of Directors.  This fee is applicable to those groups that intend to utilize the facility for any production related activity.  It is not required of groups that submit programming for playback.  An organizational membership allows that group to send 5 members for training if that training is specifically related to a video production proposal that will air on the channel.

Organizational members may use the following services:

• Production classes
• Access to production equipment
• Cablecast of programming they produce or sponsor, in accordance with Handbook.
• Complete creative control of program content, and production rights
• May apply for some programming grants

How to Become a Member
It’s easy:  attend an Orientation session and then sign up at the station.

Non-Members’ Rights
Non-members may attend some classes, may participate in CMAC events open to the public, and may appear as guests on programs, whether produced at CMAC facilities or elsewhere.  Non-members may submit programs for air that comply with CMAC program submission guidelines (See Chapter 6).

CHAPTER 3 CMAC PROGRAMS: WHAT’S ALLOWED? WHAT’S NOT?

CMAC staff will work with you to help get your ideas organized and developed.  We want to help you succeed; we want these channels to provide articulate and interesting expressions of the diversity and cultural resources of our community. 

Community and Educational Access programming is a great opportunity, but it comes with some responsibility.  It’s important to understand, at the outset, what is permitted and what is prohibited, to understand and follow all CMAC policies and procedures.

Use of CMAC’S equipment and services must result in programming that is played on one
of our channels.  Members enrolled in classes are expected to use their training toward the
production of programming for community and educational access cablecast.  

CMAC does not preview programming to screen for prohibited content. Producers assume complete creative control over the content of their programs and must abide by programming policies.   Producers of access programs assume all legal responsibility for and retain all rights to the content of their program.  Producers must secure all releases, copyrights, etc.   The producer’s signature on a producer agreement and indemnification form verifies the producer’s acceptance of full responsibility for program content and releases the CMAC staff and Board of Directors from liability or legal fees and expenses incurred as a result of cablecasting the program. This agreement also gives CMAC the limited right to cablecast and, at CMAC’s discretion, to repeat the program on any of its access channels for one year.

In general, public access programming may be produced and cablecast with no outside
content control.  However, the following kinds of content are prohibited:

Commercial Content

Commercial content is prohibited on CMAC’s access channels.
CMAC defines commercial content as information that is designed for the purpose of personal financial gain. Commercial content includes, but is not limited to, product placement, advertisement and service descriptions provided for value of any kind or nature. Commercial content also includes promotion of any individual business, partnership or corporation by direct or indirect reference or testimonial for the significant purpose of commercial exploitation.  If the primary intent or impact of a segment or program is to advertise a service or product, that constitutes prohibited commercial content.  When the prime motivation for a segment or program is to make a commercial pitch or to advertise a service or product for sale, the noncommercial use regulation is violated.
CMAC realizes that there are situations when a small amount of commercial content may be appropriate.  When commercial content is incidental to a wider permissible purpose, and helpful as a matter of context, then the noncommercial use regulation is not violated, because the commercial content is meant to be illustrative.
An author may discuss and show her book; a host may mention where it is available.  Viewers may be informed of a person’s occupation or where he or she is employed, when that information is germane to the topic.  A nonprofit can inform viewers about an upcoming fundraiser, including where to buy tickets and the cost to attend. In these cases, while commercial or economic interests are advanced, CMAC understands that it would be difficult to disseminate ideas or content without providing practical information with some relationship to the world of commerce.
The following are allowed in a limited manner if related to program content and noncommercial in intent:

1. Web addresses and phone numbers may appear and be announced twice during a program and may appear in the closing credits when using the same style, font, color and background as other production credits;
2. Visuals of books, CDs, and other products that are part of the noncommercial content of a particular program may be shown on camera twice during a program.

The following are prohibited:

1. Calls to action (e.g., “Shop at Joe’s”)
2. Business hours may not mentioned or displayed
3. Price information or dates of sales for goods, services or events of for-profit businesses.
4. Endorsements or promotions of a specific product or service are not permitted. Superlative descriptions, qualitative claims, or stated preferences for one product or service over another are prohibited.  Statements about who has used a product or service are not permitted. 
5. Telethons and auctions or fundraising events of any kind are expressly prohibited in the franchise agreements with Cox Communications except that CMAC is authorized to conduct fundraising on the air.

CMAC will apply a good faith, reasonable interpretation to questions of commercial content, and will expect producers to respond with a commensurate degree of caution and care.  In situations where the commercial content of a program is questioned, CMAC will evaluate the program as a whole and weigh the following factors:

1. The extent to which the speaker stands to personally profit for the content message;
2. Whether the program promotes a commercial service provider, product manufacturer or distributor over other equivalent commercial competitors;
3. Whether the promotion is on behalf of a not for profit, civic, charitable or religious cause.
4. Slanderous and Libelous Content

Slander is a false and knowingly malicious oral statement that damages somebody’s reputation.   The legal definition is a bit more precise and is refined by case law.  Libel is essentially the same act, but in written form. Libel and slander are not criminal offenses but give rise to civil actions, lawsuits for damages. If a viewer believes that an access program contains libelous or slanderous material, the viewer has the option to contact a private attorney to seek action against the producer.  CMAC does not preview programming to screen for prohibited content.  Members are expressly made responsible for the content of their own programs.

Obscene Content

Obscenity is not considered protected speech under the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.  The public access producer/submitter should be aware that under the Federal Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984 as amended, whoever transmits over any cable system any material that is obscene or otherwise unprotected by the Constitution of the United States is liable for substantial criminal penalties. It’s difficult to determine in advance if something is legally obscene.  It usually requires a judicial determination.
The U. S. Supreme Court has a three-pronged test for obscenity.  A program will be deemed obscene if it meets all three of the following criteria: 

1. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the work, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest, and
2. The work depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct specifically defined by the applicable state law, and
3. The work, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value.
4.  

Copyrighted Material

U.S. copyright law prohibits the use of any copyrighted material without permission from the copyright owner.  CMAC producers shall not include unauthorized, copyrighted materials in their programs and are responsible for obtaining all necessary permissions.

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Programs that contain, or are determined to contain, commercial messages or which are challenged as obscene will be pulled and not re-aired pending a determination of their status.  Sanctions against the producer may include suspension from CMAC privileges and facility.

Adult Programming- Safe Harbor Hours
Some programs aren’t obscene but still may be offensive to others and inappropriate for younger viewers.  Programs that contain sexually explicit content, nudity, offensive language, or excessively violent material are considered adult programming and must satisfy certain requirements in order to be aired. There is an affirmative duty on the part of the Program Producer to indicate on the Request for Playback Form whether any material in his/her program contains language or material that may not be suitable for children, nudity, or sexual content.  Adult programming will be subject to the following legally permissible time, place and manner restrictions.

1. These programs will be aired only during “safe harbor” hours, between 10:00 PM and 5 AM.

1. They must contain a 15 second viewer advisory, with the following information presented both in readable graphic form and with a voice over.

Warning.  The following program contains adult material that may be considered
offensive to some viewers or inappropriate for children.  Viewer discretion is advised.

It is the Producer’s responsibility to monitor the content of their programs, to correctly complete the Request for Playback form, and to provide the required warning.  Failure to comply with the Adult Programming policy may result in the program being pulled and the Producer’s CMAC privileges being suspended.

Controversial Programming
CMAC believes there is much more harm in stifling speech than in exposing people to ideas and opinions with which they are uncomfortable. Controversial programming encourages expression of free speech.  CMAC reserves the right to inform the public of controversial programming and to solicit responses from the community in the form of additional programming.

Programming Involving Non-Profit Organizations
One of CMAC’s goals is to offer programming important to our community.  Local non-profit organizations producing their own programs or appearing as guests on other programs may mention services and provide contact information.  In addition, they may promote special fund-raising events and may mention prices for those events.  However, during the course of their program, they may not engage in general fund-raising nor may they sell or promote products, including copies of their videotape. Documentation of their status as a Federally tax-exempt organization (501-C-3 status,) may be required at CMAC’s discretion.   CMAC reserves the right to produce, for free or for a fee, programming for local nonprofits.

Political Programming
The usual television election laws such as The Fairness Doctrine, Personal Attack rule, and Equal Time provisions, do not apply to public access channels.  Candidates for local office may produce programs or appear on other programs, in the same manner as any other member of the community.   No paid advertising will be accepted on behalf of any candidate for public office or political parties, including promoting and or opposing ballot issues by supporting groups or lobbying organizations.

Political candidates and advocates for ballot issues are welcome to utilize the services on the same terms as other access users.  CMAC maintains the right to limit the length and frequency of political programming in the same manner that it imposes these limits on other programs.

In fulfilling its role as a vehicle for community and communication, CMAC shall make an effort to sponsor or encourage balanced, unbiased political programming events.  CMAC also reserves the right to preempt other programming in order to provide timely local election-related programming.   CMAC may also reserve a sufficient block of airtime during each political season to enable a wide selection of political programs to be cablecast.

Funded Projects
CMAC wants to be clear with the community that our equipment, facility use, and airtime are provided free of charge, and that representatives of local community organizations, as residents, can take workshops and produce their own programs at CMAC, and have them aired for free.

Funded programs include situations in which a CMAC member is paid to produce a program for air on one of our channels or when an underwriter provides financial assistance or services that support a program.  For any funded project, prior to utilizing any CMAC equipment or facilities, the producer must submit a Third Party Agreement, signed by the funder, and approved by CMAC.  In addition, the rules for Underwriting Credits (see next page) must be followed.

CMAC members may be paid by a third party to produce a noncommercial program, utilizing CMAC equipment and facilities, only if certain conditions are met:

                        •  The program is appropriate for air on one of CMAC channels;
                        •  The program first airs on a CMAC channel;
                        •  A Third Party Agreement is signed, approved and filed;
                        •  CMAC may air the final program as often as it wishes.

Underwriting Credits
Underwriting is the process through which a business or individual donates a specific product, service, or funding to assist an access program in return for non-commercial acknowledgment on that program.  Any producer acquiring underwriting must file a Third Party Agreement form.

Underwriting credits may not exceed 30 seconds in length, regardless of the number of underwriters.  No single underwriting credit may exceed fifteen (15) seconds.  All underwriting credits must appear at either the beginning or end of the program.  Underwriting credits may not appear in the middle of a program.  Underwriters may also be acknowledged verbally by a host, at the conclusion of a program under these same terms and conditions.

A credit may contain:

1. The company or person’s name
2. The company’s logo
3. The company or person’s address
4. A web site address.

A credit may not contain:

• A video or photograph of a business or product
• A description of services

1. A slogan (e.g., a phrase used for marketing purposes) or tagline

• A phone number of a commercial venture or person
• A call to action (“come on down and take a test drive”)
• Comparative language (“we’re better than Jill’s pizza”)
• A price
• Any inducement to buy, sell, rent or lease.

CMAC Production Services
CMAC may be hired to produce programs for outside organizations and individuals for a negotiated fee and may also choose to produce programs at no charge, at the discretion of CMAC management.   CMAC may rent its facility out to supplement revenue but shall not do so when such use impinges on public access member usage.

CMAC will make a rate sheet available upon request for items such as staff services, studio rental, tapes, DVDs, dubbing fees, etc.

Production Partnerships with CMAC

CMAC management may choose to be a co-applicant for a grant or use its nonprofit 501-c-3 status to co-produce a program for Channel 21.  In all situations, CMAC will administer a reasonable administrative fee for all monies received. CMAC will not co-produce with access members for Channel 17 productions and will not use its nonprofit status to serve as a conduit for other organizations to apply for grants, unless it is specifically related to a CMAC staff production.

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CHAPTER FOUR GETTING STARTED
Prerequisites to Using the CMAC Facility and Equipment
The CMAC facility consists of two studios, two control rooms, editing bays, and field camera packages.

Any resident of the South Coast region who meets the membership criteria previously described (see pages 5-6) is eligible to use the studio to make a production or to check out the equipment.  However, before members may use the facility, they must become certified in the use of the equipment they want to use. 

The purpose of requiring training and certification is three-fold.  Our first concern is personal safety.  A second concern is maintaining and safeguarding the equipment so that it is properly utilized and available to other users.  Finally, we offer training and assistance so that community members may learn how to make quality television programs and to assist those who already know how to do it better.

Classes and Certification

CMAC offers a variety of classes, scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.  Class space is limited.  Please don’t sign up for what you can’t complete.  Let staff know you can’t attend a class you signed up to take.  Some classes require successful completion of another class as a prerequisite; some classes meet for two or more sessions spread over several days.

Classes provide instruction on CMAC production equipment leading to certification required to use that specific equipment.  At the conclusion of the class, the instructor will determine each class member’s eligibility for certification.  If a class member is not ready for certification, the instructor will determine what additional training will most likely prepare the person for certification.

Check the CMAC website for class schedules and to register.  Basic classes are available
to members for free or at a small fee.  The “service alternative” is also an option for those
unable to pay.  Nonprofit members can send up to six employees or volunteers.

CMAC will offer basic classes appropriate to the equipment and facilities available to members.  The training and classes may change to reflect new equipment, new technology, or the changing need of the membership.

Customized training is available for groups requesting it. A fee may be required.

Classes are designed to build on skills acquired in previous workshops.
Classes are a beginning, but to solidify one’s skills, nothing is as effective as working on programs.  CMAC encourages production members to volunteer as crew.   It reinforces skills and strengthens our sense of creating a community television station.

Class Waivers

Waivers for CMAC classes and instant certification are possible for people who have
proven production experience. Waivers are processed through an appointment with
an assigned staff member who will determine certification.  The applicant must meet
the following criteria to qualify for a waiver:

• Demonstrated experience with CMAC equipment or equivalent production equipment

• Ability to pass basic production skills assessment related to the class.

Depending on the class for which the waiver is being requested, the following may also be required:
  

• Portfolio reel on DVD, VHS, 3/4", or S-VHS that includes credits, if possible.

• Current production plan for facilitated public access project, in the form of an outline,

CHAPTER 5 USING CMAC’S FACILITY AND SERVICES
Program Proposal
A Program Proposal form exists on the station website; it must be completed by anyone wanting to produce a program at CMAC.   Each proposal will be assigned to a staff member who will work with the producer.
All public access producers are required to schedule a pre-production meeting with their assigned staff member when beginning a new program.  These meetings are to assist producers in the planning and production of their program and to help us effectively manage use of equipment and facilities.  If the Program Proposal form is incomplete, the assigned staff member will assist you in completing it.  Assigned staff members are also available for planning assistance during all phases of production.
In your first meeting, the assigned staff member will help you to plan your project and to determine what CMAC equipment and facilities you will need.  You will complete and sign a Program Proposal that helps the staff know more about your project. You are also encouraged to initiate appointments for ongoing feedback and consultation about your project.  Your assigned staff member may also request an appointment with you, if they determine a need.

The assigned staff member will have the authority to approve your project based on the information in your Program Proposal.  If the assigned staff member has questions or concerns about your Program Proposal, he or she will refer the proposal for consideration at the next weekly staff meeting.  You will receive approval or comments on what needs to be done to obtain approval, within a week.  Proposals will not be evaluated on the basis of content.

Access Equipment and Facility Rules
Once a project proposal has been approved, a member may check out field equipment he/she is certified to use or make studio reservations to produce approved programming for a CMAC channel.  Use of  CMAC equipment and facilities must be directly related to production of approved
non-commercial programs that will have their first airing on CMAC channels.

Members are expressly prohibited from renting CMAC equipment to any other parties or persons.  Members may not charge any organization, funding source, or underwriter for their use of CMAC equipment, studio, or for airtime.  Violations of these policies may result in immediate suspension from the facility and forfeiture of program submission privileges.  If you are in doubt, ask.

Studio Reservations and Use, Crew Minimums

For one-time programs, producers may make one studio reservation at a time, no more than six weeks prior to the requested date, in time blocks up to two and one half hours for a one-hour program and two hours for a thirty-minute program.  These blocks include time for set up and tear down. Extensions are possible but must be approved.

A producer who has an existing series  (see pages 17 and 25 for definition of “series”) may
apply for up to two single studio programs within each six-month production cycle.  This
additional usage is not guaranteed and will be determined on a case-by-case basis, on factors
such as, but not limited to, studio usage demand and timeliness of program content.

Studio use is intended for live or live-to-tape programs, or for studio segments of an edited production.   Each new live or live-to-tape production is required to schedule a tech run-through prior to the first production.

At the start of a studio production time, a staff member will check the studio to make sure the lights have been left in the "default" position, props have been put away, the studio and control room are clean, and the cameras have been properly stored.  It is your responsibility to meet these requirements at the end of your production.

The producer is responsible for finding certified crew members to fill all studio crew positions. Each crewmember must be an active CMAC member, certified to use the equipment he or she will operate during the program.

CMAC strongly encourages producers to utilize a complete crew, with each camera staffed and a complete crew in the control room.  In general, production values will suffer with a reduced crew; the program simply won’t look or sound as good or be as professional.  Viewers are sophisticated.  If you are interested in having people watch your program, take the time to plan, light, and crew it correctly.  CMAC decisions regarding repeats of programs beyond the promised number of air times may be influenced by the quality of the production.  In addition, a reduced crew may inconvenience those using the studio afterwards by causing delays in set teardown.

CMAC will permit less than a full crew under the following conditions.  No crewmember is permitted to operate more than one camera during a production.  If there isn’t an assigned camera operator for every camera, one camera will be locked on a framed shot for the duration of the program.   The Director will work with CMAC staff who will lock the camera on a shot that works for the production and which minimizes any potential damage to the camera.  

In Studio A, there must be at least two camera operators at all times.  In Studio B, there must be a minimum of one camera operator.  When Studio B is converted to remote controlled camera operation, this policy regarding Studio B will be void.  For live call-in programs, there must be one crewmember specifically designated to only answer the phones during the call-in segment.

At CMAC’s sole discretion, interns and CMAC staff may fill in as crewmembers.  Under no conditions should a producer assume that CMAC staff or interns would be available to supplant their assigned crewmembers.

If a producer has a reduced crew and cannot set up or complete their program (including tear down) within the assigned time frame, CMAC has the option of requiring a full crew for the rest of their scheduled productions.

The producer does not need to be certified; however, a non-certified producer may not operate any CMAC equipment under any condition.

Studio A can accommodate a small audience.  No more than twenty-six people, including crew, are allowed in Studio A during a production.  Producers expecting to have an audience must expressly mention this in their Program Proposal.  Studio B does not accommodate an audience.

Producers who wish to present live production must first demonstrate their ability to do so by successfully completing two live-to-tape studio productions prior to scheduling a live cablecast production.

The program producer is responsible for the actions of the crew, talent and guests during this scheduled time.  It is expected that talent and guests will be escorted to the Green Rooms within the time frame that the studio is reserved.  If staff informs the producer of a concern related to a guest or talent, it is incumbent upon the producer to follow up on staff’s concern or request.

Following a studio production, the producer is responsible for cleaning up and returning the Green Room, studio, and control room to normal conditions and for checking out with CMAC staff prior to leaving the facility.

Studio Series
A series is defined as programming with a common theme, format, length and title that is produced weekly, on alternating weeks, or monthly. Each program in a series must contain at least 75% new material.  Many of our series are studio-based.

Twice a year, in late March and in late September, producers may apply for series status, which would allow them a six-month season, starting in April and in October.

If you are proposing a studio series, we will work with you to assign you a regular studio production time.  The specific rules for series status are addressed in Chapter 7.  For each six-month season, producers may request a specific studio time slot.  CMAC staff will make every effort to honor time slot requests, but will also take into consideration other programming priorities.  CMAC will reserve ample space for the individual voice, single-issue programs, and other non-series programming. CMAC’s goal is to achieve a diversity of programming forms and content. 

Studio Cancellation and No Show Policy
If you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you will not be penalized and CMAC may be able to make your reservation available to other members.  However, if you cancel (or fail to show up) for three scheduled studio dates, or two in a row, in a six-month season, you will lose your studio time slot for the season. 

Field Equipment: Reservation; Use; Checkout and Check-In Policies
Any member working on an approved program proposal may check out field equipment he/she is certified to us once a week for a 24-hour period or for one weekend per month.  (This policy is dependent upon equipment availability and usage demands.)  Extensions are possible but must be approved and will depend upon any unique factors involving your proposal and balancing requests by other users.

Members may not remove equipment from the facility or return it without following
established checkout and check-in procedures.

CMAC equipment may not be taken out of the CMAC area (Carpinteria through Goleta),
nor may it be taken to the beach, near to or at any body of water, without express and prior
written approval of CMAC management.

Members may not reserve, checkout, or return equipment for another member unless specified and approved in advance by CMAC staff, an approval that will be rarely granted.  The rationale behind this policy is to remove ambiguity regarding responsibility for equipment in the event it is returned damaged or returned with some equipment missing.

Members are financially liable for damage, loss or theft for all equipment they check out, including replacement or repair cost of equipment lost or damaged while in their possession.  Members are also liable for damage, loss or theft of equipment they checked out that is used by their crewmembers. CMAC encourages producers to check their homeowners or renter’s insurance coverage to see if they are covered for these possible liabilities. 

Members may not allow non-certified persons or suspended members to use equipment they have reserved or checked out.

If your reservation period spans a day when CMAC is closed, return the equipment on the next business day. You will schedule specific dates and times to check the equipment out, and to check it in.  You are expected to come on time for these appointments. A staff member will make a complete list of your equipment at checkout, and you will sign a checkout form acknowledging your responsibility for the items on the list.

When returning equipment, a staff member will check that each item is in working order.
If you believe that the equipment is not functioning properly, inform the staff.  Members should not attempt to disassemble or repair equipment themselves.

Equipment Cancellation and No Show Policy

If you need to cancel an equipment reservation, call CMAC at 963-3893.  If you can’t reach a person, leave a message with your assigned staff member.  If you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, you will not be penalized, and CMAC can make your reservation available to other members.

If you are more than 30 minutes late for your checkout and have not called to make other arrangements, your reservation will be noted as a no-show and your reserved equipment may be given to someone else. 

In fairness to others utilizing the equipment and facilities, failure to properly notify CMAC of a cancellation shall be considered a violation of the Code of Conduct (see Chapter 9).

Post Production Equipment
Members’ use of postproduction equipment is limited to four hours per session.  Reservations will be accepted no more than four weeks in advance of proposed use on a first come first served basis.

A certified member may sign up for up to twelve hours of editing time per week. Exceptions may be granted depending upon use patterns.  The amount of editing time for any given project will be set by agreement between the producer and the assigned staff member at the time of the initial pre-production meeting.  If they cannot come to agreement, the Executive Director may be consulted.

Editing facilities are not to be used for viewing or logging tapes.  Other equipment is available for those purposes.

Preproduction planning is the key to efficient and successful editing.  An assigned staff member will work with you to help you design your program efficiently, and can help you with preproduction planning.  Knowing not just what you plan to shoot, but why you need it, is a good place to start.  If possible, develop a shoot to edit list and, once shooting is completed, develop an editing script.

Post Production Cancellation and No Show Policy
If you cancel or don’t show up for an editing reservation, you may be keeping someone else from completing their work, or impacting their schedule.  Please practice the courtesy to others that you would like to receive yourself.    Cancel more than 24 hours in advance.  Don’t exceed your assigned time.  Failure to cancel shall be considered a violation of the Code of Conduct.

Standby Policy

CMAC facilities and equipment are available on a first come first served basis. This includes facility reservations that have been canceled or are unused.  You may not swap or trade your studio time or equipment reservations with another producer. 

To take advantage of cancellations, we encourage you to call the day you would like to use the facility or the evening before. All facilities, equipment and classes are available on this standby basis. If you are trying to get into one of the CMAC classes before your scheduled date, check the CMAC website for a class registration update.  You may also consider showing up at an earlier class time to take advantage of any last minute openings. Be sure to call ahead and confirm that the class will be offered.

Other Facility Usage Notes
Food and drink are not allowed in the studios or in the control rooms.  Producers who do not clean up food and drinks used by their crew or guests may lose this privilege.

All material used in productions should be loaded and unloaded through the back door.  Crew, guests, and talent should come in the front door.  The door between the two studio control rooms is to remain closed and cannot be used as a passageway.

Producers’ Rights
Producers maintain ownership of rights to all original material.

Producers can request a program date and time for cablecast, in accordance with scheduling priorities.

Producers may request that their programming cease being aired, if they believe that the program information is outdated or obsolete.

CHAPTER 6 SCHEDULING AND PLAYBACK REQUIREMENTS
CMAC provides cablecast time free of charge to community members and to local organizations.  Programming is accepted on a fair and non-discriminatory basis, and will be aired without editorial control.  The channels exist primarily for the purpose of local expression. While you do not have to be a CMAC member to submit a program for playback, you must be a local resident

Request for Playback Form
Every program submitted for playback, whether produced at CMAC or elsewhere, must be accompanied with a completed Request For Playback form.  The reason for this policy is to make sure that there is a local person who assumes all responsibility for the program being aired. The person completing this form and requesting playback assumes full responsibility for the program content, pursuant to CMAC rules and to all applicable laws and statutes.  Programs can be rejected or delayed if this form is incomplete or inaccurate.

The Request for Playback form asks whether the program contains underwriting or a commercial sponsor; whether it has adult language; whether it has content or images that may render it inappropriate for children (e.g., excessive violence); nudity or sexual content.   There are boxes you are required to mark so that we are properly informed. CMAC will not prescreen, censor, or control the content of any program. The person submitting a program for cablecast on CMAC’s channels is fully liable for the content of all program material they present

The Request For Playback Form includes a clause indemnifying CMAC for any defamation, copyright infringement, or legal action resulting from cablecast of the program.  The form will also include a signed statement attesting that the program does not contain illegal material, which may include, but is not limited to any unlawful use of copyright material, any material that violates local, state or federal law relating to obscenity or indecency; any material that is libelous, slanderous or defamatory in character; material which constitutes an unlawful invasion or privacy.

CMAC strongly encourages that those submitting programs have signed standard releases from anyone appearing on their program.   Sample releases are provided by CMAC.

Closing Graphic Identification
Programs produced that used CMAC facilities or equipment must have the following wording in their closing credits:

Produced at CMAC
The South Coast Community Media Access Center
      Santa Barbara

CMAC encourages, but does not require, producers to include a legible slate allowing viewers to identify the local person or organization presenting the program.    This slate would provide viewers with contact information in case of questions or concerns; it must contain the presenter’s name and address.  Phone numbers and e-mail contacts are optional.  For a reasonable fee, CMAC staff will provide editing and production support for this requirement. 

Program Submittal Deadlines and Requirements
All programs produced at CMAC will be mastered to DVDs and must be submitted no later than 9 AM the day prior to the scheduled airdate.  Programs scheduled for Monday must be submitted on Friday.

If you need CMAC staff to dub your program to DVD, you must submit the program to CMAC staff one week in advance.  If you want CMAC staff to add the closing credits or contact information, then submit the program a week in advance, with the necessary information provided clearly in writing.  There will be a posted charge for adding the information slate and for dubbing to DVD.

DVDs of live programs and live-to-tape programs should be submitted to CMAC staff immediately following the studio shoot.

The DVD and the case must be clearly labeled with the program name, and show number if it is part of an on-going series.  Total Running Time, Date completed, and the producer’s name and phone number should be provided.

Once a DVD is submitted to CMAC, it is logged into a database, scheduled for airtime, and is not available to the Producer until the current scheduled “run” has been completed.

Each program must be on a separate DVD.

If you produce a program utilizing CMAC facilities and equipment, you must use our DVD stock, which is available at a very low cost.  If you are importing a completed program, you may submit your program on your own DVD stock.

How to Get Your Program on DVD
Programs made at CMAC are mastered to DVD.  CMAC provides DVDs to Access members for their productions at a low cost.

If you are bringing a program to us on DVD, it must conform to the requirements on the next page.

If you bring us a tape that we have to dub to DVD for you for playback, we will charge a small pre-established fee.  The fee rate will be less for members than non-members.

Technical Requirements for Cablecast Transmission
DVDs do not require bars and tones, but the program should start within a second of the beginning of the DVD.  To facilitate smooth playback in our automated playback system, each program should fade up from black within the first few seconds, and fade out to black at the end.

CMAC reserves the right to reject or pull from the schedule programs which fail to meet minimum audio and video technical standards.  Audio must be audible.  The DVD must send a stable signal over the cable system.

Programs that do not meet published standards for technical requirements or which lack the proper identifying slate will be returned for correction. 

Program Length
Programs are normally scheduled in 30 or 60-minute timeslots, and should be 28:30 or 58:30 in length in order to allow for short announcements and CMAC promotions between programs. Programs that meet the 30 or 60 minute standard are easily scheduled.  Programs that exceed this length may be cut off or rescheduled at CMAC’s discretion to times when a longer time slot is available.

Programs that are14 minutes or less in length are used as “filler” at the end of other programs or may be bundled together in 30 or 60 minute programs.  These short programs are more difficult to schedule but may receive more unscheduled airtime since they will be used as filler.  There is no guarantee that any submitted PSA will air.  CMAC intends to utilize the time between programs primarily for it’s own promotions, for short videos, and for intern-produced work.

Transferring Air Time

Airtime may not be assigned or transferred by producers to another program or individual. 

Program Cancellations and No Shows

A producer may cancel a program or series in writing at any time with written notice to CMAC.

CHAPTER 7 PROGRAM CATEGORIES

Different categories of Programs
Programs airing on our channels come from four different sources.  They can be produced at CMAC by CMAC members; produced elsewhere in the community; produced by CMAC staff; or imported from outside the area but sponsored by a local resident.   It is important to know what type of program you are presenting for playback, because there are specific responsibilities for each type of production.

• Access Productions are ones produced using CMAC equipment and/or facilities. 
Access Productions include single time studio programs, a series, and individual field
productions.  Access Productions must have a designated Program Producer, a current
CMAC member who assumes responsibility for initiating a program idea, finding certified
crew, completing all applicable CMAC forms, supervising crew, talent and guests, and
complying with CMAC rules and responsibilities.  Series programs (see page 25) may
have an assistant producer, but all other Access Productions must have a single designated
Program Producer.

• Local Productions are programs submitted and produced by members of the CMAC region (whether a CMAC member or not) that did not utilize CMAC facilities or equipment.  Local Productions might include student work, documentaries made by a local resident, animation, community events, or short video projects.  These programs may have been made at school, home, at another access center, or in a professional setting.  Each Local Production must also have someone who completes the Request For Playback and assumes responsibility for the program.  The content considerations spelled out in Chapter 3 apply to Local Productions as they do to Access Productions. 

CMAC expects and encourages community video producers to submit their work in order to find a venue for their programs.  CMAC wants to expand its programming breadth, scope, and quality by actively soliciting videos produced by community members.

Local Productions will be scheduled and aired with the same priority as Access Productions.  Our franchise agreement with Cox Communications reinforces this priority on locally produced programming of any kind.  Local productions must be either submitted on DVD or the submitter must pay CMAC to dub the program to DVD (see page 22).

• CMAC Productions are programs produced by CMAC staff and/or interns. CMAC is also responsible for producing or obtaining programming, including acquisition of curated programming, covering local events, and creating local programming which may air on either channel.  CMAC staff will produce some programs of community interest for free, as time and funds allow.  In addition, CMAC will offer fee-based production services to governmental, nonprofit, and educational organizations.

• Import Productions are those programs produced by a person or organization not residing in the CMAC area. Every Import Production must have a local resident who initiates and signs the Request for Playback Form, and who assumes complete liability and responsibility for the program content.  This information will be a public record, and, upon requests from viewers, CMAC will provide the information to callers.

CMAC will continue to accept Imports.  However, they will air less frequently than Access Productions, Local Productions, or CMAC Productions.   They will be scheduled according to available airtime at the discretion of channel management.  Imports that qualify as a series will also be scheduled according to available airtime.  Import Productions must be either submitted on DVD or the submitter must pay CMAC to dub the program to DVD (see page 22).

Series Programming
A series is defined as programming with a common theme, format, length and title that is produced weekly, or on alternating weeks, or monthly. Each program in a series must contain at least 75% new material.   No more than 25% of the programs can be re-runs.  A series can originate from any of our four program categories:  Access Production, Local Production, CMAC Production, or Import.

Twice a year, in March and in late September, producers may apply for series status, which would allow them a six-month season, starting in April and in October.

Requests for series status will be honored if the producer has completed, submitted, and successfully cablecast three individual programs, thereby demonstrating ability to produce or provide programming that meets playback standards.

For each six-month season, series producers may request a specific time slot.  CMAC staff will make every effort to honor the time slot request, but will also take into consideration other programming priorities as described at the outset of this chapter.    Maintaining a consistent series time slot from season to season is not guaranteed.

Each series may have a designated Assistant Program Producer, who can act in place of the Program Producer, up to three times in a series run. The purpose of allowing an Assistant Program Producer is to provide continuity for program series during long runs.  The Program Producer is not absolved from responsibility by delegating authority to an Assistant Program Producer.  An Assistant Program Producer is in charge only if his/her name and contact information is designated in the Program Proposal, if the Producer is unavailable, and if CMAC staff is notified at least 24 hours in advance. 

Series Episode Cancellation

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CHAPTER 8 PLAYBACK PRIORITIES, PROCESS, AND REQUIREMENTS
Priorities
CMAC staff will assign programs for playback with the goal of presenting a coherent schedule that maximizes fairness and diversity of expression, and which helps fulfill our mission.  CMAC serves both producers and viewers and will work to develop schedules that are interesting, timely, logical and beneficial to the community. CMAC will reserve ample space for the individual voice, single-issue programs, and other non-series programming.

CMAC maintains the following general scheduling priorities:
            • Access, Local, and CMAC Productions are the highest priority;
            • New programs are favored over repeat ones;
            • building a regular viewership with a viable programming schedule is important;
            • CMAC has final authority in all scheduling determinations.

CMAC will attempt to honor specific requests, but specific channel time, studio slots, and equipment use commitments cannot be guaranteed.

CMAC reserves the right to preempt previously scheduled programming in order to cablecast programs that are time sensitive and are of general community interest and public importance.

Playback Scheduling Procedures
Channel time scheduling requests must be submitted two weeks in advance of the desired cablecast date.  At the discretion of staff, if the desired time slot is available, the two-week submission rule may be waived to allow the timely cable casting of time-sensitive or newsworthy events.

With the exception of live and series programs, channel time will not be scheduled until a program is completed and all information pertaining to the program is submitted to CMAC in writing.

CMAC will air each Access, Local or CMAC Production at three scheduled times, preferably once at night, once in the morning, and once in the afternoon.

CMAC will commit to air each Import Program once; additional airdates are at CMAC discretion.

CHAPTER 9 CMAC CODE OF CONDUCT
All members and users are responsible for treating the equipment and facilities with respect and care, and for respecting the rights of others who use the community access resources.

We want to develop and maintain a culture of mutual support at CMAC.  Members can learn from each other and help each other.  Staff assists with coordination and technical problems as well as with skill development. CMAC’s staff and members have a shared goal: to help each member succeed.

The people who come to CMAC to be a part of the public and educational access process form a special kind of community.  It is diverse and creative and spans many points of view.  One thing the CMAC community must hold in common, however, is a set of common standards that we can count on to do our work in this environment. 

These standards serve to prohibit criminal behavior, respect the rights and property of others, provide for personal health and safety, and protect CMAC’s equipment and facility from abuse and damage.  Please abide by these standards at all times while in the CMAC facility.  CMAC staff is responsible for maintaining a safe and professional facility environment.  Please follow staff direction at all times.  These are the central points of our code.

Individuals found in violation of these rules will not be allowed to remain on the premises and may be subject to further disciplinary action. The following rules of conduct are in place to help provide a safe, healthy courteous and comfortable environment for all CMAC members while in this facility.

Access members must:

• Abide by CMAC Sexual and Unlawful Harassment Policy
• Avoid language that disparages others because of race, religion, origin, gender age, lifestyle, or sexual orientation
• Avoid loud, abusive, or disruptive behavior
• Not exhibit threatening or violent behavior
• Not violate public laws – any such violations will be reported to the proper authorities
• Follow staff direction at all times
• Not bring weapons into the facility (authorized law enforcement personnel excepted)
• Not smoke in the facility
• Not consume alcohol nor any illegal substances on the premises
• Persons inhibited by the influence of drugs, alcohol or other substances will not be allowed in the facility

• Maintain non-offending personal hygiene
• Must represent him or herself solely as an independent producer or as a crew member of an independent producer; a member or user cannot represent him or herself as a CMAC staff member or as acting on behalf of CMAC unless authorized in writing by the Executive Director
• Be fully clothed, and wear closed toe shoes when using CMAC equipment
• Avoid running in the facility
• Take special care not to expose others to contagious health conditions
• Not bring animals on the premises except for program content purposes or if trained for personal assistance
• Not loiter; be here if you have work to do; leave if you don’t
• Not consume food and drink on the premises except in designated areas
• Not use another’s property, time or workspace without expressed permission
• Contact staff to address equipment problems – do not attempt to repatch any equipment
• Notify staff if you are unable to attend classes you have signed up for
• Must make certain that children under the age of 12 remain in the company of their parent or guardian and are the responsibility of that person.

There are also important rules to ensure that the equipment is available for other members.  Failure to cancel a studio or equipment reservation, mishandling of equipment, late return of equipment, and return of equipment in dirty or mispacked condition are also considered conduct offenses that may result in future equipment and studio reservations being cancelled.

Exceptions to these standards must have prior approval from CMAC management.

Consequences of conduct violations
First offense - Staff will:

Appendix-Summary of Required Paperwork
-Statement of Compliance
-Third Party Agreement
-Request For Playback fo
Required Paperwork
Membership Application
Every person taking training or using any CMAC equipment must have a current membership.
Statement of Compliance
This document needs to be filled out in order to become a member or user of CMAC facilities. By signing this document you agree that you have read, understood, and will abide by the CMAC Handbook and the applicable rules and policies.Paperwork Which is Mandatory If or When…

Project Proposal
This document must be turned in and approved by CMAC prior to beginning production on any project. You must have an approved program proposal in order to use any CMAC equipment or the facility.
Request For Program Playback
This form is required for every program submitted for playback, regardless of where the program is produced (at CMAC, in community or an “import.”)Third Party Agreement for Paid Producers Form
If you are receiving third party funds for labor or production costs, this form needs to be completed and approved prior to beginning your project.


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