RA Burlingham

Antonio Vezia speaking his mind.

To further its mission of providing those in Ventura the ability to voice their opinions and keep "free speech" alive locally, Community Access Partners of San Buenaventura (CAPS-TV) announces "Open Mic Days" where people who either live, work or go to school in the City of Ventura can come into the CAPS studio, sit down in front of a camera and say whatever they want for three minutes...anything. Of course, individuals will be responsible for their remarks and will have to sign a waiver releasing CAPS from all liability. The three minute segments will be compiled into shows titled "What's On Your Mind, Ventura?" and "What's On Your Mind, Ventura - After Dark" for any segments containing adult language or themes. The shows will air on cable Channel 6 (both Time-Warner & Charter).

"CAPS, an independent non-profit, was formed eight years ago to provide those in our community easy access to an available cable TV channel to communicate whatever they so choose - without discrimination from a gate keeper, "says CAPS Executive Director, Todd Thayer. Rich Burlingham, CAPS Marketing and Development Manager adds, "for some people learning to use cameras and editing equipment can be daunting and so they shy away from producing a show, perhaps curtailing their ability to communicate a particular message. We wanted to provide these folks a simple way to express themselves. It's almost like placing a microphone in the middle of Main and California Streets with speakers all over the city."

"Open Mic Days" will occur two days each month - the second Thursday from 2 pm to 8 pm and the fourth Friday from 10 am to 5 pm. Slots will be on a first come first serve basis but a sign up sheet will be available at the start of business hours on production days. Slots will not be guaranteed. Open Mic Days segments will be taped at our media center at 65 Day Road in Ventura. CAPS reserves the right to cancel any "Open Mic Day" at its discretion at any time. According to CAPS Member Services Manager, Donald McConnell, "'Open Mic Days' will be open to members and non-members alike, though after seeing all we have to offer for only $25.00 per year - we hope people realize we're the best communication bargain in the city and join up." All participants must have proof of residency or employment with or enrollment in a Ventura-based business or educational institution.

For information call CAPS @ 805-658-0500 or go to www.capstv.org