Problems at Brattleboro Community Television which have simmered for years, boiled over at the July 6, 2005 Board of Directors' meeting at which the chairman refused to apologize to another board member whom he had called "an a--hole."

This shocking display at a public meeting with the press present is the tip of the iceberg. The incident shows that it is no exaggeration to call the current dynamics at BCTV, dysfunctional.

Although the Board is divided, fortunately there are intelligent, effective people on the Board who are working hard to restore responsible leadership to public access TV. To succeed, they need our help. Because critical decisions will be made soon, including an update to the bylaws, right now is the moment which presents the best opportunity to begin shaping a new future and look for the organization.

Here is what you can do:

1. Attend the BCTV Board meeting on Wednesday, July 20 at 5:30 p.m. on the 3rd floor of the Brattleboro Municipal Building. Your presence will show support for a new plan to improve public access at the station.

2. Become a BCTV Member. If you live in the BCTV viewing area, even if you do not subscribe to cable, you can become a member by filling out a simple, one-page form which you can pick up at BCTV on the 3rd floor of the Municipal Building.

Becoming a member will give you a voice and allow you to vote at the upcoming, special membership meeting on August 17th at which new bylaws will be proposed. Membership will allow you to receive training and to use equipment so that you will qualify to create your own TV show about any topic which interests you. Membership will allow you to vote at the annual meeting on September 17th, at which time any vacancies on the Board will be filled.

BCTV belongs to all of us. Your participation will make it possible for OUR station to become a responsive, accountable, community resource.