Over 30 years ago, there was quite an audacious dream that resonated out of a lovely Brooklyn hamlet. The hope was to produce quality programming that was engaging and helped bring the Catholic faith to the masses daily/24 hours a day.
Led by a dedicated team this dream has exceeded all expectations.
What started out as the Prayer Channel airing mostly acquired programs like the critically acclaimed, CHRISTOPHER CLOSEUP and the classic DAVEY and GOLIATH has exploded on the scene as The Net.
While Pastoral Communications and The Prayer Channel was the brainchild of Monsignor Michael Dempsey, The Net has been in the works for several years thanks to the efforts of a 16-year employee, Christopher Quinn.
Quinn's career rise has been meteoric. From his humble beginnings as a part-time production assistant to the Director of Programming to his current role as General Manager, Quinn has taken the network to the top with him.
During the recession, Quinn was able to have the original offices and studio completely rebuilt with state of the art equipment and a faith inherited from the networks meager start.
Jon Kelley, a driving force for the Prayer Channel and Pastoral Communications was a spirited, talented and unflappable soul.
There was rarely enough money for regular productions like BIBLE QUIZ(Hosted by CURRENTS Director,Cedric Chin), THE TABLET WEEK IN REVIEW or specials like THE EYEWITNESS, but Kelley made it work by bartering or using his own bare hands to build the sets.
He was very helpful until his dying day to all who would listen. In fact he was instrumental in bringing me back to my TV roots as a free-lance producer role shortly before his passing.
Quinn has stated, "In many ways he shaped The Net". Quinn also went on to say how Jon gave you a pat on the back, but also knew when to kick you in the pants.
Gina DeSalvo-Krainchich was a young producer and skilled director for The Prayer Channel and called Kelley her "mentor". It is not surprising that like Quinn, she has had a fine 25 year career with Trans Video Communications and is the current Director of Operations.
Kevin Cianciulli, is the networks cracker-jack engineer who like DeSalvo-Krainchich has enjoyed a long and respected run with the non-for-profit diocesan run network. He is generous to a fault and like veteran co-workers, Robert Taylor(School Services), Johnny Fidalio(Tape Ops) he had a close relationship with Kelley.
Cedric Chin, the humble and talented Director of CURRENTS, was most affected by the loss of Kelley. It is no wonder as Kelley took Chin under his wing from day one and always saw his limitless potential.
The station produces over a dozen regular programs and is the only Catholic network with a nightly news and magazine program.
CURRENTS is run by Deacon Greg Kandra who was a superb writer with CBS Radio and Television earning awards for his crisp thought-provoking style. He is also the Deacon at the magnificent Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish in Forest Hills, Queens where his sermons are poignant and inspiring. He also pens the very popular blog, FROM THE DEACON'S BENCH on Beliefnet.
Shuy-Fy Pongnon is the second in command as the Assistant News Director and she runs a tight ship to ensure all segments and show elements are accomplished efficiently.
Christopher Iasiello is the staff writer who made his bones as a radio news scribe. He also contributes much to the NetNY.Net web site which provides video streaming off all programs so that the Net's reach is of global proportions.
The on-air team is also an eclectic team made up of Harvard Grad, and news veteran Francesca Maxime', a versatile southern singer and actor in Matt McClure, energetic and always curious and fine reporter Nathalia Ortiz and the irreverent "Catholic Guy", Lino Rulli. Producer Blaine Hicklin provides a creative eye as the main cameraman/producer/editor for the show.
CURRENTS isn't the only program making waves on the New Evangelization Television network. MYSTERIES OF THE CHURCH was recently nominated for an Emmy and The First annual Faith Film Festival is less than three weeks away, seats are limited so make sure to order you tickets before they run out!
There is also historic coverage beginning tomorrow that one can view on cable or on their computer if they live outside the NYC area. The following was from the Net's current Media Release:
"History is in the making when Pope Benedict XVI visits England (Sept 16-19) and New Evangelization Television (NET) will be there to provide a perspective you just won’t see anywhere else.
Only on NET can viewers receive not only the political and social aspects of the visit but also the spiritual realities, which are often forgotten in commercial coverage. We’re also pleased to announce that many distinguished clergy and guests will be participating in the commentary to provide coverage that is not only unique but also from the point of view of the Church in and around the world."
During my initial tenure with The Prayer Channel, the budget was so tight that I was not only a cameraman/stagemanager, but I did the make-up as well. My tools were simple, foundation, powder, disposable sponges and a hefty bag with a hole in it to protect the Priest's vestments. The late Bishop Mugavero(Mugsy) chuckled when I first "took off his shine".
There once was a successful cigarette campaign which extolled,
"You've come a long way baby." The same could be said for The Net with one exception, The Net is healthy and very good for you.
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Joe Appio
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