The topic of your show is entirely up to you. The United States Supreme Court has determined that the cable access provider may not interfere or change your message. However, be aware that limited power exists for the provider to deny broadcast of your programming if it's determined to contain pornography or slander.

You can produce a program on local politics, cooking, log cabins or any subject that strikes your fancy. More mainstream shows will attract a larger audience, while shows that tend to be more "out there" will appeal to a more, shall we say, selective audience. Length is usually in the 30- to 60-minute range, although some providers might have different requirements. The scheduled broadcast date is up to the public access provider. Although you may certainly request a certain date and time, the rules of the organization might determine a different time for your debut.

Once in the edit bay, it's time to turn that stack of videotapes into a full-length production. Editing will be most exclusively computer-based, and you may have limited time to edit your masterpiece for broadcast, as others will most certainly be waiting in the hallway for their turn to edit their productions. Plan ahead and jot down notes before the edit session to ensure maximum efficiency and the highest-quality product possible.

Public access video channels serve an important purpose, because they provide an electronic soapbox for local folks to broadcast their unique points of view about the world, the nation and city around them. For those willing to do a little work and sacrifice a little time, the high price of video democracy is free, and it's just around the corner. After all, it's a federal mandate.

Randy Hansen is a television news chief photographer who volunteered for a public access channel while in high school.

Public access was initially begun as a way for local communities to have their voices heard through the medium of television, but public access providers have begun to seek out new avenues of communication to fulfill their commitments to allow minority voices of opinion and creativity to be heard.

Many operators now offer high-technology solutions beyond television. The internet provides worldwide access via web pages, blogs, vlogs, podcasts and cell-phone distribution to achieve and serve the idea of access for all. Some providers are updating their services to include these technologies.

As new technology emerges, innovative ways of communicating will allow the mainstream, the right and left and the fringes of opinion a more level playing field, when the access to these distribution channels is provided for all. Check with your local provider to see if it has some or all of these technologies available for use. If not, ask it to look into offering these services to its members in addition to television production.