Tell us a bit about your organization and what your specialty is in the film and video space.

DCTV (Comcast Cable Channel 23) provides an avenue for DeKalb County, GA government to directly speak to the more than 770,000 citizens in the county. DCTV frequently focuses on events, programs and activities that positively impact the lives of residents and visitors. Viewers get first-hand accounts of what their local government does each and every day to make sure life in DeKalb is increasingly safer, economically sound and the quality of life improved.

What is your organization’s ethos and how does it set you apart from industry competitors?

At DCTV, our ethos is rooted in transparency, accessibility, and service. We exist to connect DeKalb County government directly with its residents, ensuring that every citizen has clear, timely, and accurate information about the programs, services, and decisions that shape their daily lives.

What sets us apart from traditional industry competitors is our public service mission. Unlike commercial broadcasters whose priorities are driven by ratings or advertising revenue, DCTV’s sole commitment is to the community. We provide unfiltered access to government actions – such as Board of Commissioners’ meetings, emergency updates, and special proceedings – while also highlighting events and initiatives that enhance public safety, economic growth, and quality of life.

How can people join or learn more about what you do?

The public can learn more about DCTV by tuning in on Comcast Channel 23, watching our 24-hour livestream, or exploring our Video on Demand library and YouTube channel. DCTV also encourages the public to reach out – by calling our office, visiting our website, or following us on social media (YouTube, Instagram, Facebook).

We’re always eager to connect with citizens, answer questions, and share how our work helps highlight the programs and services that make DeKalb a stronger, more vibrant community.

Tell us about your Telly Award winning piece. What’s the story behind it?

The video commemorates Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s historic swearing-in as DeKalb County’s first African-American female Chief Executive Officer.

First aired during her Inaugural Gala on January 12, 2025, at the Fernbank Museum, the feature introduces CEO Cochran-Johnson and highlights her journey as a community leader and commissioner, her dedication to public service, and her vision for a unified and thriving DeKalb County.

What are you most proud of about this piece? What was your biggest challenge during production and how did you solve it?

What I’m most proud of about this piece is how it reflects the teamwork and dedication of our DCTV staff. We don’t just document events – we actively support the planning and execution of major initiatives for the CEO and county leadership, making sure everything runs smoothly both on the ground and on screen. Seeing it all come together and knowing our work helps residents feel more connected to their government is extremely rewarding.

Do you have any advice to other filmmakers based on your career or your team’s approach to work?

Work is never just about the equipment or even the final product. It’s about the people who make it happen. Having a strong “family” team you can rely on and work well with makes all the difference. Deadlines get tight, circumstances change on the fly, and unexpected challenges always come up. When you’re surrounded by a team that communicates well, trusts each other, and is willing to pitch in wherever needed, you can overcome almost anything.\

Can you share a behind the scenes story or fun fact about the making of your piece?

A fun fact many people don’t realize is that some of our most polished productions come together with a surprisingly small crew. It’s a testament to how dedicated and resourceful the DCTV team is! We wear a lot of hats, but we do it because we believe in connecting our community to its government.

Tell us about the most memorable response you got from this work.

Many shared that watching CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s journey – from commissioner to DeKalb’s first African-American female Chief Executive Officer – filled them with pride and hope for the future of the county.

At the Inaugural Gala, people told us the video brought an extra layer of meaning to the evening, because it didn’t just mark a political milestone – it reflected the perseverance, leadership, and vision of someone who represents progress for the entire community.

Complete this sentence: ‘Great video storytelling is…’

… the art of blending images, words, sounds, and emotion into a narrative that informs, inspires, entertains, and unites a community.