New Programming in Marquette

I didn’t get any positive feedback on the C-SPAN Radio programming that I was carrying on Access Marquette Channel 2… I listened quite a bit, myself, and it was kind of – um, what’s the word – dry?

A chain of coincidences led me to discover the Antioch Broadcasting Network (ABN), from AM 1710 in Antioch, Illinois.

Without waxing too philosophical or assuming too much, this appears to be an example of chasing a dream and following a passion.

A radio enthusiast there named Jay Lichtenauer has a collection of thousands upon thousands of old-time radio programs that he has categorized by genre and organized by date – and then written computer software to automatically schedule a very well-organized 24 x 7 stream of quality programming from days gone by – categorized, organized, and apparently very listenable and enjoyable for all ages.

Access Marquette Channel 2 is now carrying the audio from ABN. It’s still in a bit of a testing phase, here, but it seems to be working quite well.

I hope to update the Channel 2 display screens to include “Now Playing” to match the audio track, but that will take me a little bit of time – or I’ll need a brilliant flash of insight in the meantime.

The ABN web site contains a complete schedule and some background information.

---

In the coming weeks, I’ll be adding a new channel for kids – “Smile of a Child.”

Here is how its promoters describe it:

“Consistently gentle, faith-based children’s programs”

“Value-based programming for children 2-12”

“Smile of a Child is all about family values and wholesome entertainment ... Parents will never have to worry about their children becoming confused, upset or frightened by something they see on the network...”

If this programming lives up to these claims, I believe it will be a valuable addition to the Blue Sky Cable programming lineup.

---

Also coming soon, is “JCTV” –

“JCTV’s programs consistently combine non-stop entertainment with value-driven messages.”

“JCTV features a blend of Christian music videos, teen talk and reality shows, extreme sports, comedy, concerts, and more. JCTV is currently the only faith-based entertainment network in the U.S. exclusively targeting young adults.”

“Young adults,” in this case, means 13 to twenty-something.

I’m optimistic that both of these faith-based channels will bring new value to Blue Sky Cable’s programming lineup for you and your family… and once we launch, I hope to hear your feedback.