The summer is half over and it is time for an update from the Checkout desk. MTN has acquired a few new cameras, and some awareness of a common camera problem. Many of you may not know that we have three new Canon ZR-70 beginning digital cameras. They have replaced some of the ZR-60 camcorders.  The ZR-70s have a wide angle lens adapter that is available separately.  Ask a checkout staff person to show it to you and see if it will work for your next program. We have also added a fifth PD-150 advanced digital camera to meet the high demand for access to our most requested camera. One technical problem we have seen from time to time with our beginning Canon ZR cameras is the sensitivity of their digital tracking. Our engineer, Jim Derks, has discovered that misalignment of the small heads of these cameras causes pixelization of footage. He has been able to adjust the cameras to realign the heads, so if your tape comes back with drop-outs there is a chance that a realigned camera will play your tape properly. Another recurrent problem with the Canon ZR cameras may be heat related. It has happened to me more than once. Occasionally the camera will mysteriously deny the tape and ask to be shut down.  I have found that trying to load the tape again is the best way to get around this problem. I'd also like to make a plug for the studio classes here at MTN.  It is exciting to get inside a television studio and find out what production is like. Studio production is the easiest and fastest way to put a quality program on our channels, to get your message together quickly and efficiently. You can always practice and develop your skills by participating as a volunteer on a current show. Call MTN at 612-331-8575 and ask for the time of the next Free Information Workshop to find out how you can help put programming on our three community channels.  The layers of creative possibility available through technology are impressive and await your involvement.

On Friday, June 25, 9th Ward City Council member Gary Schiff hosted a meeting to discuss MTN's future. Here are a few quotes from that meeting. A tape of that discussion will be shown on MTN channel 17 on Friday August 6 and 13 at 8:30 p.m. Al B. Ware (The Lemmy O Show) "That's what I like so much about MTN, about public access, is that anyone can come. It's not who you know that gets you on the show. It's your ability and your willingness to come and participate." Council Member Gary Schiff "I know I watch [MTN] a lot. Most people watch it and it's just an important part of Minneapolis. I can't imagine Minneapolis culture without it.”