“The sharing of ideas and information is critical to the vitality of communities across Wisconsin, yet access to quality local coverage has been declining in the media environment.”

So begins the proclamation signed by Governor Tony Evers declaring October 20 Community Media Day in Wisconsin. The Governor celebrated the work of PEG (public, education, and government) media centers whose mission is to serve local communication needs. He said “strong media centers build strong communities by encouraging government transparency, fostering civic engagement, elevating local voices, promoting area businesses, and training students in being strong local media representatives.”

Mary Cardona, executive director of Wisconsin Community Media, was excited to see the Governor’s endorsement of the work done by PEG media professionals and community producers. “Our work is more important than ever. Our media centers encourage ‘coming together’ -- something that is in very short supply in the current media environment.”

Two mayors and the Oregon Village President, Phil Van Kampen, also signed proclamations celebrating community media.

Mayor Shane Blaser, City of Wisconsin Rapids, said in his proclamation, “Community media organizations provide a means for diverse communities to tell their stories, hear each other’s stories, and create new stories together.”

Van Kampen said, “The Village of Oregon shares in the Governor’s celebration of the hard work and importance of community media centers, supporting local media, and citizen involvement in community happenings…the Village of Oregon recognizes the importance and value OCA Media provides to the vitality and fabric of the Oregon community.

West Bend’s Mayor Joel Ongert expressed appreciation for the West Bend Community Television team that has produced nearly 500 hours of local content so far this year. His proclamation said in part, “Community Media Day provides an opportunity for our citizens to acknowledge the significant role that community media plays in fostering local dialogue, civic engagement, and social cohesion, and to encourage its growth and sustainability.”

Rep. Melissa Ratcliff (District 46) appeared in a PSA for the Sun Prairie Media Center. Representative Ratcliffe said, “My work is most rewarding when I hear from my constituents about what they think about the important issues that affect them at the local level. Media centers like the Sun Prairie Media Center exist to ensure local communities are informed about important issues that affect local people every day…Sun Prairie Media Center is an essential part of our community.”

Andy Radig, the Communications Coordinator for Oshkosh Media, talked with John Fitzpatrick, Assistant City Manager, in a special segment for the City Manager’s Report show. “All the opportunities that are available to the community as well as providing transparency into government and community activities — it’s really a great resource and I’m very proud to have a small part in it. It’s gratifying to see that the Governor is providing this proclamation.”

Many media centers shared celebratory posts on social media.

Perhaps Janesville JATV Media Services spoke for all community media center staff members on this special day when it said in a Facebook post, “JATV Media Services will always be committed to fostering a sense of community & connection with unwavering dedication. Thank you for your continued support.”