The world of local access television has a new star, and its name is "Democratic Visions." This no-budget cable TV show, produced by Jeff Strate, has taken the national stage by storm, winning the prestigious Hometown Media Award for its 2025 season. What makes this victory even more remarkable is the show's humble beginnings and the dedication of its creator.
In a sea of corporate-funded media giants, "Democratic Visions" stands as a testament to the power of independent, community-driven storytelling. The show's recognition by the Alliance for Community Media (ACM) highlights the importance of public, educational, and government cable TV channels in our media landscape. These channels provide a platform for diverse voices and unique perspectives, often overlooked by mainstream media.
A Community Media Pioneer
Jeff Strate's journey with community media began in 1975 at University Community Video, an organization that pioneered public access television. His commitment to this field has spanned decades, and his latest achievement is a testament to his passion and skill. Strate's win at the ACM's 50th Anniversary Convention in Madison, Wisconsin, was a moment of celebration for the entire community media industry.
The award ceremony itself was a heartwarming affair. Strate, upon receiving the plaque, was greeted with enthusiastic cheers from unexpected supporters - Rebecca Smith and Ben Vinar. Smith, the head of a large Minneapolis access media center, and Vinar, the chair of the Midwest Chapter of ACM, had a personal connection to Strate's work. Vinar's studio, Bloomington Community Access Television (BCAT), has been the home of "Democratic Visions" and other Eden Prairie Local News (EPLN) productions.
The Power of Collaboration
What makes Strate's win even more significant is the collaborative spirit it embodies. Community media centers, journalists, artists, educators, and cultural organizations are coming together to amplify local voices and stories. This collaboration is not just a trend but a movement, as evidenced by the growing number of partnerships and the recognition they receive. Eden Prairie Local News, for instance, has won multiple awards for its community-focused journalism, including five first-place Page One Awards from the Minnesota Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.
Southwest Community Television (SWTV) is another example of this collaborative spirit. It offers free access to video training and equipment to businesses, organizations, and residents in several communities. This initiative empowers individuals to tell their stories and contribute to the rich tapestry of local media.
A Legacy of Community Engagement
Jeff Strate's involvement with community media is deeply rooted in his family's history. His wife, Carol Strate, was a pioneering cable access figure in Madison during the 1980s. Her work with WISC Cable Channel 4, crafting programs with Leon Varjian and others, showcased the potential of community media to engage and entertain. From covering professional baseball games to creating the quirky "Vern & Evelyn Show" hosted by lab mice, their programs were a testament to the creativity and dedication of community media producers.
The Future of Community Media
The recognition of "Democratic Visions" and other community media initiatives is a sign of a broader shift in the media landscape. As mainstream media consolidates, community media centers are stepping up to fill the gaps, providing a platform for diverse voices and local stories. The collaboration between media centers, journalists, and cultural organizations is a powerful force, and it's exciting to imagine the impact they will have in the future.
In my opinion, the success of "Democratic Visions" and similar shows is a reminder of the importance of local storytelling. It's a call to action for all of us to support and engage with our community media, to ensure that our local voices are heard and our unique stories are told. After all, it's through these stories that we build a stronger, more connected community.
So, let's celebrate the achievements of Jeff Strate and "Democratic Visions," and let their success inspire us to continue supporting and engaging with our local media. As Strate himself said, "I am blessed" to be a part of this community, and so are we.
