CTAC Minutes

CTAC Meeting Minutes   July 7, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
 

Attending members:

Peaches Quinn (New Haven)   Acting Chairperson – ZOOM Host
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) Advisor
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System)   Advisor
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Joe Schofield         – CTV Representative – not in attendance.

Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance

1. Call to order 6:06pm. II.   Welcome and Minutes(a) Zoom video recording:   Peaches make Motion to henceforth video record the
   Zoom meetings and publish to the CTAC Facebook page and the CTAC website
   https://www.cableadvisory.org/ George states that CTAC meetings are “public meetings”
   according to our By-Laws, including Hamden, New Haven, and West Haven.
   Johnes seconds Motion to video our meetings on Zoom. Brief discussion.
   Motion vote – all are in favor, Yes.

   (b) June Minutes – acceptance is deferred pending revisions.

   (c)   May Minutes approved? Yes, all drafts are complete. Peaches has sent a copy of the
   Fourth Draft. George will put the May Minutes onto the CTAC website.

   III.    Treasurer’s Report – George Alexander

   (a) George reports that the Brewery Street P.O. Box charge has been paid. Otherwise
   “there have been no changes” – no expenditures, no income.

   (b) CTAC Connex Card: Johnes reports that the Grubhub charges for members’ June
   meeting orders did not execute, so that he had to use his own credit-card to pay
   for all six orders. Was then reimbursed, Peaches recommended that Johnes contact
   Connex and Grubhub again to configure the credit card into the Grubhub account.

   IV.     CTV Report – Joe Schofield – No report filed.   Mr. Schofield is not in attendance.

   V.     Comcast Report – Sharon Codeanne (not in attendance).

(a) COMCAST PRESS RELEASE

Comcast

One Comcast Center

Philadelphia, PA 19103

www.comcastcorporation.com

COMCAST ADVANCES ECONOMIC MOBILITY AND RACIAL EQUITY IN UNDERSERVED

COMMUNITIES THROUGH $10 MILLION INVESTMENT WITH INCLUSIV

NEW YORK, NY & PHILADELPHIA, PA – JUNE 9, 2021 –

Inclusiv and Comcast Corporation today announced that Comcast has committed to invest $10 million specifically aimed at building equity in credit unions led by and/or serving people of color through Inclusiv’s Racial Equity and Resilience Investment Fund (“the Fund”). Launched in 2020, the Fund leverages investments to increase lending to minority owned businesses, homeowners, and consumers, providing access to capital and new financial opportunity to traditionally underserved and underbanked communities. As Inclusiv’s first corporate investment, Comcast’s commitment will enable local financial institutions to deploy at least $200 million in total capital in communities that need it the most and help ensure hardworking individuals have access to the capital needed to build and strengthen their financial lives.

This high-impact investment also paves the way for additional contributions from social impact investors, further growing the Fund’s impact and reach. The Racial Equity and Resilience Investment Fund builds upon the highly successful Inclusiv Resilience Grant Fund, which raised more than $1 million in grant funds for 59 minority-designated credit unions serving more than 200,000 members.

The unprecedented economic crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the long-standing racial wealth gap caused by generations of systemic racism in the United States. People and communities of color saw their income levels, ways to accumulate wealth, and entrepreneurial opportunities lag behind that of their white counterparts before and after the pandemic, disparities that became even more pronounced over the past year. Currently, the unemployment rate for Black workers is almost double that of white workers. Additionally, Black-owned small businesses have experienced the most significant decline among active small business owners nationwide, shutting their doors at more than twice the rate of white-owned businesses.

“Our partnership is driven by the simple – but powerful – idea that businesses can help change and

improve lives,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott, Executive Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer of Comcast Corporation. “This investment reflects our commitment to advancing pathways to economic mobility and racial equity. We applaud Inclusiv’s leadership in removing barriers to financial opportunity and helping drive powerful returns that reach across entire communities.”

Community Development Credit Unions (CDCUs) and Minority-Designated Institutions (MDIs), which are locally owned financial institutions, have stepped in to meet essential needs in their communities. They helped unbanked consumers open accounts to receive stimulus checks safely, delivered low and no-cost emergency loans to meet basic household needs, provided forbearance on existing loans, and made at least $4 billion in Paycheck Protection Program loans to small and micro businesses during the pandemic.

“Large-scale investments grow community-based financial institutions to fulfill their mission – helping

people traditionally left out of the financial mainstream to access and use financial products to build credit,start and grow small businesses, and achieve the dream of homeownership,” said Cathie Mahon, President and CEO of Inclusiv. “Comcast’s investment enables these crucial front-line institutions to provide solutions to inequitable access to credit in communities of color. Inclusiv welcomes Comcast as a new investor, moving investment into action to build strong and diverse local economies.”

Community development and MDI credit unions can have significant impact on their communities if

supported with the capital necessary to thrive. Secondary capital allows CDCUs and MDIs to do more of what they do best – extend credit and provide safe and affordable financial services to underserved

individuals who may not otherwise have access to them. Inclusiv studies have shown that CDCUs that

received these investments leveraged capital up to 60 times over 5 years – resulting in more loan

deployment, more financial products and services offered, and more specialized lending.

About Inclusiv

At Inclusiv, we believe that true financial inclusion and empowerment is a fundamental right. We dedicate ourselves to closing the gaps and removing barriers to financial opportunities for people living in distressed and underserved communities. Inclusiv is a certified CDFI intermediary that transforms local progress into lasting national change. We provide capital, make connections, build capacity, develop innovative products and services and advocate for our member community development credit unions (CDCUs). Inclusiv members serve over 14 million residents of low-income urban, rural and reservation based communities across the US and hold over $184 billion in community-controlled assets.

Founded in 1974, Inclusiv is headquartered in New York, NY, with offices in Madison, WI and Atlanta, GA. For more information about Inclusiv visit us at Inclusiv.org and connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, Peacock, NBC News, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia.

Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

 

Interested supporters with questions about the Inclusiv Racial Equity and Resilience Investment Fund

can contact Cathi Kim, Director of Inclusiv/Capital, at [email protected].

Media Contacts:

Audrey Wang

Inclusiv   [email protected]

Joelle Terry

Comcast Corporation   [email protected]

Comcast Minutes Wednesday, July 7^th, 2021 – CONTINUED

(b)   Comcast Customer complaint – being multiply charged subscriber “Late Fees.”
Comcast official reply: “Not a problem.”   It is agreed among CTAC advisors
present that this is not an acceptable reply. The customer reported that this Late
Fee had been repeatedly imposed as an extra charge of their monthly bill, as the
payments of the initial Late Fee was being contested, and therefore the payments
were considered by Comcast to be two months behind. The subscriber’s name
is Kimrose.

Peaches makes a Motion to pursue Comcast explanation if they can justify an
additional Late Fee being imposed every month, adding up to hundreds of dollars
of extra charges. Laurel Coleman asks about the sequence of this subscriber’s
letters of complaint to CTAC.   Laurel, George, and Johnes agree that Comcast’s
                        response to this situation is inadequate.  Peaches Quinn says that she intends to
follow up with Sharon Codeanne at Comcast and will formally request a letter of
acknowledgement. Laurel Coleman seconds Peaches’ Motion. Vote – all in favor.

(c)   Peaches proposes Motion: Question to Sharon Codeanne; “How does Comcast
respond to this revolving circular motion.   Yvonne Manning-Jones seconds
this Motion. All in favor.

(d)   Comcast P/R – Employment – Peaches – “Are employment opportunities easy to come
by?”   Laurel discusses issues of people’s needs” “How can people access these
resources?”     Peaches: “Comcast is sending monies $ to resources: MBI, Credit
Unions, Equity Financials, Community Development, Science Park Development
Corp. etc.     Peaches makes Motion to follow-up with Comcast P/R for Hamden,
New Haven, West Haven? Johnes seconds the Motion. Vote – all Yes, but George
abstains.

Tom Costa asks: “Can we get Comcast to to include a copy of the the Press Release
in their billing customer letters?”   Peaches responds, “Comcast is not likely to do
that in their billing, and more likely to push-back against this request. She asks Tom
to follow-up about eligibility, and how Comcast’s money is being disseminated?

VI.   Old Business

(a)   CTAC Public Service Announcement update – Laurel Coleman – requested report
is deferred to October, when CTV has fully reopened.

(b) Community Awards
* Veterans outreach – update – Anthony Cardo – no info to update.
* Other ideas: e.g. Community rooms, public housing – no info to update.

(c) CTAC Facebook page : Update —Y. Manning – No update.

 

(d) Lettter to 3 Mayors urging city-wide internet – Issue deferred to next meeting.

 

 

(e) General Assembly – Bill 6442- Internet Equity – Update from Sen Gary Winfield
– Sen. Winfield was invited to this meeting but was unavailable.

 

 

VII. New Business

(a)   CTAC Officers nominations:   Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary.

1. Peaches makes Motion for procedural to multiple positions – canvas to these
four positions:

Chair – Peaches offers her incumbent position to others but no takers. Johnes
renominates her. Laurel seconds Motion. All – yes.

Vice Chain – Laurel Coleman volunteers.   All in favor.

Treasurer – George offers to continue to handle financial matters. All in favor.

Secretary – Anthony volunteers. Johnes volunteers to continue his responsibility.
Johnes proposes alternating services month-by-month.

George questions whether this is or is not an option in the By-Laws? Issue for
further discussion. Johnes and Anthony will discuss.

George makes Motion to approve slate of Chair, Vice Chair, and Treasurer.
Johnes seconds Motion. All are in favor.
           

(b) CTAC By Laws

• Revision   – Issue not addressed.
• Updating – Issue not addressed. Adjournment (a) George makes Motion for August meeting – Wednesday August 4^th 5:30 to 7:30.
  Johnes seconds Motion. All in favor.

  (b) Peaches asks for Motion to Adjourn. Johnes makes Motion. Yvonne seconds.

  Meeting adjourned 7:25 PM

  Draft of July Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta. July 28, 2021.

FINAL   CTAC Meeting Minutes   June 2, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
 

Attending members:

Peaches Quinn (New Haven)   Acting Chairperson – ZOOM Host
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) Advisor
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Joe Schofield      – CTV Representative – not in attendance.

Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance

1. Call to order 6:13pm.  

   II.    May Minutes

_ Peaches requests the Comcast report to be attached to Minutes for May and subsequently
(if there was one) versus summarizing commentary.
_ Section #8 – Subscriber issues – Peaches will provide revisions.   Vote Carried.

III.     Treasurer’s Report

George Alexander reports “Balance remains the same.” (No expenditures)

Johnes reports that the Connex Credit Card that he was issued did not function when he
used it to pay for Grubhub dinners for CTAC members for this meeting, even though
he had recently verified its active status with the Connex Credit Union. Johnes paid for
all GrubHub orders via his own Credit Card, and was later reimbursed for the full amount
by the CTAC Treasurer. There has been no further resolution of this problem.

Treasurer’s report– Johnes makes Motion to accept. Yvonne seconded to accept. Vote -all yes,

IV.        CTV Report – Joe Schofield is absent from the meeting.

Peaches asked whether Joe mentioned the progress of the PSA for CTAC that we all attended       for video recording in early February 2020, before the pandemic was called. There was no         mention. The Council             expects that when the CTV opens in September 2021, that the recorded
PSA will get attention.

(Note from May Minutes: TV offices and studios have been closed since March 2020
due to Covid-19, but will reopen June 1^st for staff only, not for producers.   Then September       1^st for producers. All persons who enter must show proof of vaccination (CT Vaccination
Card. Masks and Social Distancing will be required for all. Otherwise, persons
will not be allowed entry.)

 

1. COMCAST Report – None submitted to CTAC.

   a.  Subscribers’ issues:   CTAC has only one Comcast contact – Sharon.
   Peaches Quinn will distribute Sharon’s email contact so that we can all reach her.

   b.  Yvonne Manning-Jones notes that Comcast subscriber contracts are known to expire
   without notification or warning and subscribers’ bills will suddenly increase by
   a large amount to the next higher subscription tier.
   Peaces inquires if there was any alert to subscribers of immanent increases showing
   on the Comcast website? None known.

   c.             George added a post to the CTAC website (cableadisory.org): for “FAQ [Frequently
   Asked Questions] published by PURA, including info about the Comcast app to view
   the status of a subscriber’s data usage.

   VI       Old Business

   a. PSA. Laurel informs the council that, since the video PSA has not been completed,
   CTV will put an announcement indicating CTAC is recruiting for new members on the       community calendar. Peaches request Laurel submit the announcement to be posted            on the CTAC website and Facebook page.

   b. Community Awards –
   (1) Anthony Cardo reports on the progress of outreach from the Veterans Hospital
   and veterans groups.
   (2) Other ideas:
   Senior Centers
   Community rooms: usage for seniors – ? should the CTAC give grants for these
   programs ?

A community award be provided to the Q-House once it reopens.
Discussion to continue.

c.   CTAC Facebook page & website update:
George states that our site is presently reaching out to the public. No design changes          needed.

d.   Letters to Mayors (of towns of our jurisdiction) – Peaches has sent out request from
mayors on status of our request for city-wide WiFi. She reports that there have been
deferred actions now pending outcome of the CT General Assembly activity.

e.   General Assembly – Focus on Gov’s Bill 6442 – Internet Equity —PQ

Joint Favorable in Approps, 05/03; Tabled for House Calendar, 05/04

https://cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?
selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB6442&which_year=2021

Contact with Comment: Reps, Elliot, Horn and/or Candelaria (Appropriations);
Sen Gary Winfield, Energy and Tech Committee

1. Annual Report:

   (1) George submitted all the monthly Minutes for the past fiscal year. Approved.
   The inclusive report goes to PURA.

   (2) Financial Report of Expenditures. Peaches stresses that all expenditures
   should be reported.

(3)   George and Peaches debate on how to submit the Annual Report to PURA –
whether submission on the preset Form.

(4)     Peaches Quinn stresses Community Outreach needs. George reminds that CTV
provides free meeting space for CTAC’s monthly meetings. Johnes agrees that
Community Outreach contributions by Comcast are essential to enabling CTAC’s
mission working with the cable subscriber public.

(5)   George Alexander makes a Motion that major contributions made as one-time gifts                        from CTAC in 2020 for financial assistance to Hamden and. New Haven
be put into the Annual Report..   Johnes seconds this Motion.
All – Yes; Laurel abstains.

(6)   Laurel suggested adding a financial footnote to the annual report financial section to

highlight the community awards which CTAC awarded the past year. However, the discission from members was not to include the footnotes.

(7)   Johnes makes a Motion to approve the submission of the Annual Report to PURA
as prepared by the Treasurer through email, contingent on the the addition of
George’s point reference to the body of .the Minutes. Yvonne makes the Motion to
Second. Vote – all in favor,

VII. New Business

1. a. CTAC Officers Nominating Committee – Not taken up.

   CTAC By-Laws 1) Revision; 2) Review updating – Not taken up.

   c. May Statewide Meeting –   Not taken up.

7:10 pm,   Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds Motion. All Agreed.

Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, July 7^th, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.

June 2^nd, 2021 Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.

FINAL— CTAC Meeting Minutes   May 5, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
 

Attending members:

Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Stand in Chair
(Peaches Quinn (New Haven)   Acting Chair – absent
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Anthony Cardo (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Joe Schofield         – CTV Representative – in attendance.

Sharon Codeane – Comcast Representative – not in attendance but report submitted

1. Call to order 6:03pm.  

   2.     April Minutes

   George’s requested edits – done.
   Laurel’s requested edits – done.

   Yvonne – Motion to accept April Minutes.   Laurel – seconds the Motion.
   Vote Carried.

   3.     Treasurer’s Report

George reports “Balance remains the same.” (No expenditures)

Anthony makes Motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report. Johnes seconds the Motion.
Vote: carried.

4. CTV Report – Joe Schofield.

   a. CTV offices and studios have been closed since March 2020 due to Covid-19,
   but will reopen June 1^st for staff only, not for producers.   Then September 1^st for
   producers. All persons who enter must show proof of vaccination (CT Vaccination
   Card. Masks and Social Distancing will be required for all. Otherwise persons
   will not be allowed entry. )

5. The Cable Television Advisory Council can resume meetings in the CTV office in
   September.

   c.   Laurel states her concern for unvaccinated individuals, but agrees with CTV   protocol.
   Joe notes that Laurel uses the CTV Editing Room, but indicates that there is a CTV
   editing program that can be downloaded onto her computer for use at home.

   d.   George asks Joe if CTV had gotten any Small Business Loans?
   Joe indicates that CTV is not eligible for C(3) Funding. But CTV is trying to get
   additional money from the State of Connecticut.

   5.   Comcast Report – S. Codeanne

   Sharon Codeanne submitted the Comcast Progress Report.   Please see attachment
   below..

   6.     Old Business

   a. CTAC Public Service Announcement- PSA call for new CTAC members: Laurel requested an update from CTV program scheduling to learn when this PSA would be run. Laurel reported CTV has not given a date the PSA will be run, but has stated they recognize our need to recruit council members.

 

1. Community Awards – Anthony Cardo – No response from outreach as yet

 

1. CTAC Facebook Page- ? Yvonne, status?

CTAC Website-   George say that he has updated our website (cableadvisory.org) info with news about Comcast programming for children, and further commented that Comcast really needs the same programming options for seniors.

1. Letter to 3 Mayors urging city wide internet – still deferred….

Within your networks and social media: Urge all to send letters to the Mayors of our 3 towns   to implement Internet city wide wifi free of charge.

Comcast has not yet responded to CTAC’s call for city-wide WiFi.

 

1. General Assembly-

1) Governor’s Bill 6442- Internet Equity

Continue to write/call legislators daily!

2) Support Bill in U.S. Congress proposing internet become a public utility

7. New Business

1. Annual Report- Minutes review and financial report being added
2. Appoint CTAC Nominating Committee – Discussion took place
3. Subscriber Issues
4. Subscriber Correspondence – None
5. Complaints: Laurel states that there have been numerous complaints to Comcast about their   “unjustified” rate increases during the pandemic, + $10 in February 2020 and an additional $10 in January 2021.
6. Other: Consumer Inquiry
   Laurel spoke with Peaches about a Comcast subscriber hoping to get assistance for her monthly bill. Peaches checked with Sharon . Unfortunately there is a wait period of 3 months an individual needs to be on unemployment before any funding help from Comcast kicks in.

 

7:07 pm,   Laurel makes Motion to Adjourn. Johnes seconds Motion. Agreed.

Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, June 2, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.

May 5^th,, 2021 Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMCAST ANNOUNCEMENT

Good afternoon!

We have seen time and again how access to technology opens a new world of possibilities, and that’s why we are thrilled to ask you to join us in celebrating the 10th anniversary of Internet Essentials, our comprehensive effort to close the digital divide. Since launching in 2011, the Internet Essentials program has connected more than 44,000 households in Connecticut to high-speed Internet. As we look back on our decade-long commitment to connecting the unconnected, we’re also looking ahead. We will continue to work to close the digital divide by sharpening our focus on programs that provide media and technology skills training that can lead to economic mobility.

In Connecticut, we have continued to drive Internet adoption through several initiatives, which include increasing the speed of our Internet Essentials service to 50 Mbps downstream and 5 Mbps upstream. This was the sixth time since the inception of Internet Essentials that we increased speeds for these customers while keeping the price of the program at $9.95/month. We are also continuing to offer 60 days of free Internet Essentials service to new customers through June 30, 2021 and our public WiFi hotspots remain open for free to everyone, even non-Xfinity Internet subscribers.

In addition, we are proud partners of the Connecticut State Department of Education to provide Interest Essentials to even more low-income families, through our Internet Essentials Partnership Program.

Lastly, we’re excited to announce the launch of 25 WiFi-Connected “Lift Zones” across Connecticut, 13 of which are now open. Comcast “Lift Zones” enable us to forge partnerships with community centers to support safe spaces for homework, training, social activities, and more, driven by connectivity.

We’re immensely proud of everything Internet Essentials has accomplished – and we know from our work over the past 10 years that the digital divide can only be addressed through a comprehensive effort by nonprofit and community-based organizations, educational institutions, faith leaders, as well as the government and private sectors. We can’t thank you enough for being part of this journey with us and invite you to view our 2021 Internet Essentials Progress Report to learn more about how we have evolved to serve our communities over the years, as well as through the ongoing pandemic.

 

Thank you again for your support and the work you do in your communities every day.

 

Best regards,

Sharon

 

Sharon Codeanne

Director, Government & Regulatory Affairs

Comcast

222 New Park Drive

Berlin, CT  06037

860-505-3477

[email protected]

 

PRESS RELEASE

Comcast Corporation

One Comcast Center

Philadelphia, PA 19103

www.comcastcorporation.com

COMCAST LAUNCHES DISNEY+ AND ESPN+ ON XFINITY

Millions of X1 and Flex Customers Can Now Enjoy Disney+ Original Series, Feature-Length Films, Documentaries, Live-Action and Animated Series, the Latest Releases from The Walt Disney Studios and More via the Award-Winning Xfinity Voice Remote

ESPN+ Launches on Flex Today and X1 in the Coming Weeks, Bringing Fans Thousands of Live Sports Events Including the Upcoming FA Cup Semi-Finals, UFC 261, new MLB and MLS seasons, The Masters & PGA Championship, Original Programming and More;

PHILADELPHIA – (March 29, 2021) – Comcast and The Walt Disney Company today announced the start of the rollout of Disney+ and ESPN+ on Xfinity, giving X1 and Flex customers access to the Disney+ library of movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, along with thousands of live sports events and original programming from ESPN+.

The launch means in the coming days tens of millions of customers will soon have access to Disney+ in an easy-to-use, state-of-the-art user interface that provides access to the best entertainment, just in time to enjoy the newly released series Marvel Studios’ “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier,” “The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers,” and upcoming series “Big Shot,” premiering April 16, and “Secrets of the Whales,” premiering April 22.

Additionally, ESPN+ is now available to Flex customers via the ESPN app, with plans to launch on X1 in the coming weeks. ESPN+ programming includes over 10,000 live sports events including exclusive UFC events, hundreds of MLB games, Golf (coverage from PGA Tour, The Masters and PGA Championship), an incredible lineup of international and domestic soccer (including the FA Cup, Bundesliga, Serie A, MLS, Copa Del Rey and more), college sports from 20 conferences, boxing and much more. ESPN+ also features exclusive ESPN+ Originals and signature studio shows like “Stephen A’s World,” “SportsNation” and “Peyton’s Places” – plus exclusive access to the entire library of ESPN’s award-winning “30 for 30” documentary films and more.

X1 and Flex customers can access Disney+ or ESPN+ by saying “Disney+” or “ESPN+” into the Xfinity Voice Remote or by saying the name of a desired title from one of the streaming services (like, “The Falcon and The Winter Soldier” or “Stephen A’s World”). Xfinity customers will also be able to find the Disney+ and ESPN+ content libraries integrated throughout their user experience, including in collections such as “TV,” Movies,” “Sports” and more.

“With the launch of Disney+ and ESPN+, our X1 and Flex customers will now be able to enjoy all the best entertainment from today’s most popular streaming services on one device that makes it easy for them to find their favorite programming, or discover something new,” said Rebecca Heap, Senior Vice President, Video and Entertainment, Comcast Cable.

“The launch of Disney+ and ESPN+ on Comcast’s Xfinity platforms comes at an opportune time with the new Disney+ Original series from Marvel Studios ‘The Falcon and The Winter Soldier’ in full swing, the return of Coach Gordon Bombay in a new series ‘The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers,’ and “Secrets of the Whales” from National Geographic premiering on Earth Day. It will be a big April on ESPN+ too with UFC 261, the start of MLB and MLS seasons, The Masters, and more,” said Michael Paull, President, Disney+ and ESPN+.

Disney+ and ESPN+ join a growing collection of streaming services available over the Internet on X1 and Flex including Peacock, Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Spotify, Amazon Music, YouTube, Vudu and Pandora, amongst many more.

Xfinity delivers all the best entertainment to customers via its X1 and Flex devices and through its leading Xfinity Internet service. X1 provides the most comprehensive library of entertainment on one platform with thousands of choices – aggregating live TV, On Demand, and all the best apps. Xfinity Flex is a 4K streaming device included with Xfinity Internet that extends the best features of X1 to customers who prefer a streaming experience, with all the favorite video and music apps, as well as the ability to manage Xfinity WiFi, mobile, security and automation services – all controllable with the award-winning Xfinity Voice Remote.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company that connects people to moments that matter. We are principally focused on broadband, aggregation, and streaming with over 56 million customer relationships across the United States and Europe. We deliver broadband, wireless, and video through our Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky brands; create, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Universal Studio Group, Sky Studios, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, multiple cable networks, Peacock, NBCUniversal News Group, NBC Sports, Sky News, and Sky Sports; and provide memorable experiences at Universal Parks and Resorts in the United States and Asia. Visit http://www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

About The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes Disney Parks, Experiences and Products; Media & Entertainment Distribution; and three content groups—Studios, General Entertainment and Sports—focused on developing and producing content for DTC, theatrical and linear platforms. Disney is a Dow 30 company and had annual revenues of $65.4 billion in its Fiscal Year 2020.

# # #

Media Contacts

Comcast

Debbie Frey

215.983.0563

[email protected]

Disney

Bridget Osterhaus

[email protected]

April Carretta

[email protected]

 

 

CTAC Meeting Minutes   April 7, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
(due to virus pandemic)

Attending members:

Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Advisor – Temporary Chairperson
Laurel Coleman (Hamden) Advisor
George Alexander (Hamden) Treasurer
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System)
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative – not in attendance
Joe Schofield         – CTV Represntative – not in attendance.

1. Call to order 6:05pm.   Teleconference members on Zoom.2.     March Minutes
   Changes requested – Laurel – none; Yvonne – none.

   3.     Old Business

   a.   CTAC Facebook page: Yvonne states there have been no changes.

   b. Laurel has sent an email to Andrew at CTV requesting CTV to post CTAC request for new members from underrepresented towns, especially West Haven, which currently
   has no representative on CTAC.

   Laurel asked if the Council was ready to move to the agenda item dealing with consumers. (The discussion proceeded.) She mentioned Ms. Fern Coleman contacted her (Laurel) to see if there was assistance available to reduce her Comcast bill since she (Fern) was unemployed. Fern indicated that a Comcast representative stated that she needed to contact the Unemployment office to obtain a coupon to present to Comcast. Fern contacted the Unemployment Office, and a representative stated they were not familiar with any coupon type program. (Fern is a Comcast customer, and her contract has expired.)

George indicated that the only program he was aware of was the Internet Essentials Program, that Sharon had shared with the Council in the past. Laurel said that, she wanted to have this matter followed up, and wanted to follow protocol which has been used in the past with such consumer inquires and complaints. The protocol has been to provide the Chair (Peaches) with the inquiry or complaint, and she inquires with the provider (Comcast). Laurel indicated she would contact Peaches to pass Fern Coleman’s inquiry onto to Comcast.

4.     Treasurer’s Report

1. George reports “no change in status;” no expenditures.b. CTAC Annual Report to be filed; this will be done via online Form supplied with
   form questions.

   Johnes makes a Motion to accept George’s report, Tom Costa seconds this Motion. Carried.

2. 5. New Business

   Laurel states that there have been numerous complaints to Comcast about their
   “unjustified” rate increases during the pandemic, + $10 in February 2020 and and
   additional $10 in January 2021.b. George mentions the New Haven Independent report: “Comcast boondagle in attempts
   to set up a city-wide WiFi internet that estimates will cost $1 Million !”

 

7:02 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds. Agreed.

Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, May 5, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.

April 7th  Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.

CTAC Meeting Minutes   March 3, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
  (due to virus pandemic)

Attending members:

Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) – Acting Chair
George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Advisor
Laurel Colemen (Hamden) Advisor
Tom Costa (New Haven Library System)
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative
Joe Schofield         – CTV Represntative – not in attendence.

1. Call to order 6:04pm.   Teleconference members on Zoom.

   2.     New member greeting: Tom Costa representing New Haven Public Library System,
   Adult Services Center. background in Military Communications; IT Educational instructor;
   Radio station experience. Government Document Librarian. Resides on Temple Street.
   Council members introduce selves to new member.

   3.     COMCAST Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – is in attendance.
   a. To help connect low-income families to the Internet, Comcast has committed to launching
   more than 1,000 WiFi-connected “Lift Zones” in community centers nationwide. Comcast
   will provide free WiFi in these facilities to help students get online, participate in distance
   learning, and do their schoolwork

   b. LEAP is now an active Lift Zone and we are also working with the Boys & Girls Club of New Haven, Youth Continuum, New Haven Housing Services and the Urban League of
   Southern CT.

   c. Last month, Comcast increased the speed of our Internet Essentials service for the sixth
   time in 10 years – to 50/5 (without changing the price).

   d.   Programming Updates:
   a. Effective March 9, 2021, NBA in SD format will no longer be available as part of the NBA League Pass HD Pay-Per-View. NBA in HD format will continue to be available
   on Channel 1218 as part of NBA League Pass HD Pay-Per-View.

   b. Effective April 13, 2021, Cartoon Network will move to the Digital Preferred package.

   e. The $2,000 annual support check was mailed to George Alexander; confirmed receipt
   on 12/21/20.

   f. George asks Sharon about Gov. Lamont’s announcement that all areas and households
   in CT have cable service extended to their locations. Sharon explains that there are some
   rural areas in CT not yet served in their service area.

   g. Peaches asks Sharon about the anticipated arrival of 5G WiFi in our district area?
   Sharon replies that there is not yet a time frame for this system ugrade.

   h. George asks Sharon question about turnaround time on DVR replacement.

   i. Johnes asks Sharon where to find Comcast Financial Reports. She directs information
   to the Comcast website page on Investor Relations. Johnes asks about the justification
   for the second rate increase since 2020, $10 January 2020, $10 more in February 2021.
   Sharon argues about other cable competitors in CT, Johnes asks if competition is an issue
   why not lower rates? Sharon argues Comcast’s increasing operational costs.

   j. Peaches asks Sharon for info on criteria in identifying “older adults” eligibility for
   Internet Essentials.

   k. Tom asks Sharon for clarification on zones for Lift Zones initiative. Sharon emphasizes
   implementation for zones for virtual school sessions.

   (After her presentation, Sharon Codeanne signs off from the meeting.)

   4.     February CTAC Minutes.
   Peaches requests distribution of February Minutes, previously sent as Draft to Peaches.
   Johnes emails Final Minutes for February and December Minutes to all members.

   5.     CTV Report     Joe Schofield – Executive Director CTV – not in attendence.
   No report; no one has heard from Joe Schofiled. Laurel needs an update regarding the
   PSA that was video taped before the pandemic shutdown, No update received from CTV.

   6.     Treasurer’s Report  – George Alexander
   George states current CTAC account balance is $5,547.32, including $2,000 check just
   received from Comcast.   Received a bill for Post Office Box charge, just paid, is $332.
   Peaches makes Motion to accept the Treasury Report. Johnes seconds the Motion, Carried.

   7. . Old Business

   a.   CTAC Facebook page: Yvonne states there have been no changes. She has been perusing
   other Advisory councils; she saw one ADA offering plug-in for computer screen access
   for individuals with disabilities. Peaches notes that community constituents would need
   Spanish or other languages for screen texts.

   b. Laurel’s report on PSA: “has not heard anything” from CTV where PSA was recorded in             February 2020. There is no update on work on PSA, as schools are not in regular session.

2. George talks about a major redesign of the CTAC website cableadvisory.org
   George specifies that the design is all done, and has added links for the legislating for
   internet for all, but needs more input about what we at CTAC are doing.

   8. New Business

          a. Peaches brings up CTAC continuing legislative activity on internet for all and
   net neutrality.   Concerns regarding complaints on new data usage caps being proposed
   by Comcast. These additional surcharges have been delayed for one year by CT AG Tong.
   Legislative Aide Jason Knight communicated with Peaches regarding H.B.6157
   Gov. Lamont has proposed a corresponding Bill 4, but Peaches notes that the language
   of this Bill is “more weighted on the side of Internet Security.”   Peaches indicates that
   the CTAC sub-committee of herself, George, Yvonne, and Johnes will address the issues in
   H.B. 5157 in order to get them included in Bill 4.   Laurel Coleman expresses her concern
   for rate increases. Peaches notes that emails to the legislature have little effect, and instead
   recommends multiple telephone calls to State Senators and Representative to join efforts
   to implement rate controls in CT.   Peaces also notes that in the northwest corner of CT, the
   preponderance of internet traffic of Wall Street connections is gobbling up resources
   on cable towers.

   b.  Peaches recounts her participation in the Statewide Cable Advisory Council meeting in
   February, where the main issue addressed was a plan to save the northwest corner of the
   state, which would be “Fiber to Home.” Peaches states that the time spent at this Statewide        meeting going through the Agenda was 22 minutes! When her question was waiting on
   “raise-hand” on that Zoom meeting, regarding Legislative issues, was ignored by the Chair          Person. Peaches says that the other Connecticut Cable Advisory Councils, such as Waterbury,
   Hartford, Bridgeport, should be represented but were not. This Statewide Chairperson
   recommended all the advisory councils raise money for lobbyists for causes that they
   wish to promote.

7:32 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds. Agreed.

Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, April 7, 2021, 6:00pm, via Zoom.

March 3^rd Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven) Acting Secretary.

CTAC Meeting Minutes   February 3, 2021 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
  (due to virus pandemic)

Attending members:

Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) – Acting Chair
George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Advisor
Laurel Colemen (Hamden) Advisor
Anthony Cardo   (Hamden) Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative – not in attendence.
Joe Schofield         – CTV Represntative – not in attendence.

1. Call to order 6:02pm.   Teleconference members on Zoom.2.   Meeting Minutes December 2, 2020, (most previous CTAC meeting.) Peaches requests that
   all members read December Minutes, and submit requested changed by Friday , February 12^th.

   3.     Treasurer’s Report – George Alexander

   George will submit Treasurer’s Report updates as soon as possible.

   4.     CTV Report     Joe Schofield – Executive Director CTV – not in attendence.
   No report; no one has heard from Joe Schofiled.

   5.     COMCAST       Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance.
   CTAC members stipulate that Comcast needs regular representation and attendance
   at CTAC meetings.

   Johnes states that the situation with Comcast rates and announced data caps

   6. . Old Business

   a. Laurel’s report on PSA: “has not heard anything” so no update on work on PSA,
   as schools are not in regular session.

   b. Anthony’s report on Community Awards: he has sent out many email inquiries only one
   response – from House of Heroes – which turned down the request: “not in our mission profile.” Peaches notes that there are presently no groups are assembling or responding
   on these on this program.

   c. CTAC Facebook page: Yvonne states there have been no changes. She has been perusing
   other Advisory councils; she saw one ADA offering plug-in for computer screen access
   for individuals with disabilities. Peaches notes that community constituents would need
   Spanish or other languages for screen texts.

   7. New Business.

   Peaches brings up subject of where on the internet to find the registry of Proposed Bills
   in the Connecticut Legislature, directs each Zoom meeting participant to open the internet
   to the CGA for the CT General Assembly:   CGA.ct.gov – then find the icon for the
   Energy & Technology Committee – where CT Senator Gary Winfield is the Chairperson.
   Next find the icon on this screen for BILL RECORD BOOK. Here, the prefic PSB
   represents “Proposed Senate Bill,” and PHB represents “Proposed House Bill.”

   On this list we find PHB-6156 : A Proposed House Bill “To Prevent a Cumulative
   Internet Usage Data Cap.” The purpose of this proposed law would be to disallow
   internet cable franchises from charging extra rates when a limited amount of internet                                                                                                                                                                  connectivity.

   At 7:03 pm, CT Senator Gary Winfield (D-New Haven) joins the Zoom call as invited earlier.
   He gives an update of the progress of legislation to regulate cable company imposition of data
   usage caps: PHB-6156, in initial drafts, is one of the Bills before the Communications
   Committee.

   Peaches Quinn, speaking for the CTAC Council asks what we can do to effect more influence
   in the CT Legislature ? Sen. Winfield gives an email address to lobby: [email protected]
   to be sent to individual legislators with a focus on leadership members:

   Writings for Public Testimony, from citizens, and in-person visits to the State Capitol
   (present in-person limit is 3 minutes) and in written form.
   1. contact committee members
   2. provide specifics on how to interface with public
   3. articulate issues
   4. ask for action in State Legislature
   5. put together a coalition.

George will contact Cable Statewide Advisory members   and put pressure on members
and continue outreach to other Cable Advisory councils in Connecticut.

Cable companies to be stated in legislative action:
Optimum,   Frontier, Spectrum, Cablevision,   Comcast (Hartford, Middletown, Danbury,
New Haven, Groton.

Peaches Quinn reiterates our call to have the internet be declared a Public Utility, so that
P.U.R.A. can assume responsibility as the Internet Regulator.

Peaches requests an additional Zoom meeting this Friday, February 5 to continue work on
tis issue. Peaches makes a Motion to engage an advocacy on behalf of internet and prohibition     against cable companies imposition of additional charges of internet usage, especially during
Covid-19 Pandemic.   Johnes seconds this Motion. Carried my CTAC membership vote.
Peaches makes a second Motion to meet outside of regular Council schedule. Johnes seconds
this Motion. Carried by Council agreement.
George Alexander makes Motion to reach out to Statewide Advisory to ask if they want to
partner with our efforts ?   Anthony Cardo seconds this Motion. Agreed.

7:32 pm, Johnes makes Motion to Adjourn. Yvonne seconds. Agreed.

ADDENDUM     Secondary CTAC Meeting on Friday February 5^th.

Peaches Quinn’s contact at PURA is Rosalind Gunn.   Peaches is seeking documentation
for Comcast’s Business Model – She has not found this documentation.

Statement of Goals – What to accomplish for any advocacy for legislation:
*   gather community strength
*   outreach
*   Legislative Bills

– PSB-4 AAC on Data Privacy

Themes

* Data Usage Fee – CTAC – CT Attorney Generat Tong has made executive action
to cable franchises to hold-off Internet Data-Caps imposition for one year.
*   Regulation of video rates

*   Net Neutrality on state and national level – all CTAC members are agreed on need for this
policy.

* Internet as a Public Utility – all CTAC members are agreed on need for this policy.
PHB-6157: introduced by Rep. Matt Blumenthal – contact his aide and determine who
are his legislative allies. We will document case – why this is a good thing?
Rep. Matt Blumenthal 860-240-8585 (son of US Senator) – determine status of this Bill:
how many other reps are associated? What is their priority of this Bill.
Are they looking for advocates ? Take “temperature” of Bill among other legislators,
in public support.

Joint CT Senate/CT House Communications Committee. Co-Sponsor – Rep. Michael
A. Winkler (56^th District).   Will Senator Winfield become a Co-Sponsor ?

Next CTAC Meeting: Wednesday, March 3^rd, 6:00pm, Zoom.

February 3^rd and February 5^th Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven)
Acting Chair.

CTAC Meeting Minutes   December 2, 2020 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
            (due to virus pandemic)

Attending members:

Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) – Acting Chair
George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Advisor
Laurel Colemen (Hamden) Advisor
Anthony Cardo   (Hamden) Advisor
John Jessen (New Haven Free Public Library System – NHFPL)
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative – not in attendence.
Joe Schofield      – CTV Represntative – not in attendence.

1. Call to order 6:02pm.   Teleconference members on Zoom.

   All members have received XMAS benefit Grubhub delivered pizza items from De Legna
   X Nolo at their residences. Requests received and ordered submitted by Acting Secretary
   Johnes Monday and Tuesday. Ordering required reimbursement to Johnes debit-card for
   $169.43 as the CTAC Connex Credit-Union credit-card would not register for payment
   on Grubhub or either UberEats or DoorDash websites. Connex was contacted but card
   problem not solved.   Reimbursement completed by George.

   2.     New Business
   a.   Yvonne reports that Comcast announcement that it will now charge for “excessive data usage.”     $10 extra on bill for every 50GB over the 1.2 TeraByte threshold up to $100.

   Anthony Cardo concurs on this threshold report. Comcast claims that this will only
   affect 5% of its customers. All CTAC members agree that this is a concern for older
   people, especially during the current Covid-19 Pamdemic, when many subscribers,
   especially elders in nursing home, are confined to indoors all the time.

   b.   Johnes reports that Comcast has eliminated their free Norton AntiVirus download
   for subscribers’ internet protection, effective December 31, 2020.

   c.   George Alexander makes a Motion that CTAC writes to Sharon Codeanne, the Comcast
   Representative for an explanation of this added “Excessive Data Usage” charge.
   Johnes seconds this Motion. Vote unanimous.

   3. Old Business

   a.   Regarding New Haven Library System CTAC participation, Peaches Quinn questions
   City Librarian Advisor John Jessen as to what will be the NHFPL agenda to interface
   with the CTAC ?   John Jessen provides his work cell phone number to confer with
   Peaches and CTAC members.

   b.   Peaches also asks John Jessen: “What about NHFPL provision for City-Wide WiFi?”
   John Jessen replies: “Some schools have already installed WiFi antennae on roofs
   for local coverage for up to a 3 city-block radius around a school.”
   George asks John what is the cost to add a WiFi “hotspot” ?
   John reports the charge of $30 per month, so that five hotspots will cost $150.

   George reminds us that CTAC has a “mission” to be mindful of community needs,
   such as school children needing internet access during the pandemic school closings
   and on-line teaching. .

   George questions whether there are funding donors that can be contacted to defer these
   costs ? Laurel Coleman mentions the on-going CT State initiative for expanded WiFi                    coverage, scuh as the state Technology Group, and the New Haven IT Group.

   c.   Johnes questions the privacy and security of public hotspots, especially regarding
   retail purchases made with credit-cards ?

   d.   Peaches requests John Jessen to enhance the request letter from City-Wide WiFi before
   it will be submitted to the Mayors’ offices for to New Haven, Hamden, and West Haven,
   and the CT State Legislature Communications Committee taskforce. John agrees to this
   request. This process will be addressed in three steps:

2. Follow-up draft of letter to mayors of the three towns in our district,

   2. We should make contact the CT State IT Committee and invite them to the
   January CTAC Zoom meeting.

   3. John Jessen will reach out to the Legislative Office.

   Johnes Ruta makes Motion to pursue these objectives during December.
   Yvonne Manning-Jones seconds this Motion. Vote unanimous.

   4.         Treasurer’s Report   – George Alexander

   Treasurer’s Report. Peaches asks if there is any news to report for November. George:
   “Not at this time.”

3. COMCAST Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance.

   6.     CTV Report     Joe Schofield – Executive Director CTV – not in attendence.
   No report.

   7.   Next CTAC Meeting by Zoom, scheduled for January 6^th, 2021, 6:00pm.
   December 2^nd, 2020 CTAC Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven)
   Acting Secretary, December 22, 2020.

CTAC Meeting Minutes   November 4, 2020 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
            (due to virus pandemic)

Attending members:

Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) – Acting Chair
George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Advisor
Johnes Ruta – (New Haven) – Acting Secretary

Sharon Codeane – Comcast Represntative – not in attendence.
Joe Schofield      – CTV Represntative – not in attendence.

1. Call to order 6:13 pm.   Teleconference members on Zoom.a. Peaches notes request for contact from Christian Robles, reporter for The Yale Daily News.b. Peaches asks George if he would prefer to delegate the or have assistance with the
   incoming webmail. George defers, but Peaches determines to make the webmail
   available to all CTAC members, when time allows her to do this task.

   2.         Treasurer’s Report   – George Alexander

   Treasurer’s Report. Peaches asks if any news to report for October. George” “Not at this
   time.”

2. October 2020 Minutes – Submitted by Yvonne Manning-Jones.a.   September meeting Minutes – George requests clarification from Yvonne’s Minutes.
   Peaches says that she will fill in and distribute.4.       COMCAST       Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative – not in attendance.

   Johnes notes that Comcast has discontinued the 5 non-Premium commercial-free STARZ
   chanels from the Preferred Channel tier and transferred them into the STARZ Premium tier.

   5.         Old Business

   a.   CTAC Facebook Page – Yvonne speaking of the CTAC Facebook page that she                              implemented earlier this yeaer, she notes that the first Facebook page created by
   Johnes in 2017 still remains online, and shows when CTAC is Googled.
   Johnes notes that he was unable to delete this page, and requests advice to do this.

3. Regarding the Letter to the New Haven Mayor proposing free WiFi in the city
   submitted by Johnes in September, Peaches state that she will appropriate this letter
   for Hamden and West Haven Mayors’ offices.
4. New Business
   a.   Comcast has expanded their Internet Essentials program for poor household that qualify.
   The Sign-up for subscription is $9.99 per month. Comcast offered 3 free months for
   any member of any Public Assistance program such as State, Food Stamps, or Rental
   subsidy. Eligibility for anything equated to financial need.b.   Peaches asked Sharo n Codeanne about certain needy people who have been rejected
   from the Essentials program. It was discovered that these individuals were not
   formally signed up in be eligible for this program. Peaches recommends that we
   go back to correct this proposal. Her concern is also for aging people.7.     COMCAST Report (Comcast Rep. Sharon Codeanne is not in attendance.)

   Subscriber issues: re correspondence received by George Alexander:
   #1 Courtesy Sports Adjustment for this month from Comcast were a $23 credit on each
   subscriber bill.
   #2 Credits given for periods when there was no Comcast service due to electrical power
   outages.   Comcast bill contract guarantees 24/7 Service Restoration.

   #3 Exceptions: Interruption of service caused by “Acts of God,” and extenuating             circumstances.

   8.     CTV Report     Joe Schofield – Executive Director CTV – not in attendence.
   No report.

   9.   Other

   Chairperson Peaches Quinn opens discussion about the annual December Dinner Meeting,
   “what to do during the pandemic crisis?” It is decided that the restaurant Nolo on State Street,
   New Haven, be contacted by Johnes regarding delivery of items from their take-out menu.
   All CTAC members who wish to participate will supply their personal delivery address and
   their menu selections (BYOB only) to Johnes, for the Wednesday, December meeting at    6:00pm. Peaches makes Motion to accept this plan; Yvonne seconds. Motion carried.

   November 4^th , 2020 CTAC Meeting Minutes respectfully submitted by Johnes Ruta, (New Haven)
   Acting Secretary, November 27, 2020.

CTAC Meeting Minutes October 7, 2020 – ZOOM TELECONFERENCE

Attending members:

George Alexander – (Hamden) – Treasurer
Yvonne Manning-Jones  – (New Haven) – Advisor
Anthony Cardo – (Hamden) – Advisor

Johnes Rhuta – Not in Attendance

John Jessup – Not in Attendance

Laurel Coleman – Not in Attendance

Peaches Quinn – (New Haven) –  Acting Chair

 Sharon Codeanne – Comcast Representative.
Joe Schofield      – CTV Representative – Not in attendance.

 

Call to order 6:05 pm

 

1. Comcast Report – Sharon Codeanne gave her report.

She elaborated on Comcast’s Community Impact Internet Essentials Partnership Program designed to accelerate internet access and enhance distance learning for school districts and organizations- as well as expanding access to broadband at home

Peaches said some people were complaining of being declined for internet services. Sharon requested that all correspondence should be sent to her for follow-up

George reiterated his concern from the September meeting that all those subscribing to internet and/or television services subscribers be included in the count of Comcast customers, thus maintaining the fee paid to CTAC.

As this requires a modification of Connecticut Law, it is recommended that Joe Schofield appeal the old law which is no longer applicable.

Peaches made a motion to email Joe with recommendations.

The motion was seconded by Anthony. Vote carried.

Peaches recommended changing Subscriber Correspondence (Item VII of Agenda) to Subscriber Issues, sub topics. A. Correspondence and B. Complaints /Other.

The motion was seconded by George and the vote carried

2. September Minutes – The minutes were clarified to
3. Old business
   2019. CTAC Public Service Announcement: L. Coleman reported there had been no update from CTV regarding the release of the CTAC PSA recorded in the summer of 2019.
   2020. Anthony Cardo reports that there are no updates on the development of the CTAC Community Award
   2021. CTAC Facebook page. Yvonne says she continues to post notices from Comcast and other cable related information. She posted an abbreviated notice of the Comcast policies regarding phishing and internet security and a link to the detailed documentation that George placed on the CTAC web page.

 

George made a motion to delete the Facebook Group page administered by Johnes.

Yvonne seconded the motion. The motion carried.

 

1. Review of Johnes Ruta letter to the Mayor of New Haven

It is noted that the letter is addressed to the mayor of New Haven but should serve as a template for letters to go to both the mayors of Hamden and West Haven. George made a motion to remove paragraph 3 of the letter as the CTAC group lacks the expertise to offer technical guidance.

 

The motion was seconded by Anthony. The vote carried.

 

4. New Business

Peaches made a motion to ask John Jessup to develop a second draft based on his understanding of the need and knowledge of resources already in place and for John to follow up with the Hamden and West Haven libraries.

 

Anthony seconded the motion. The Vote carried.

 

Next meeting set for November 4th, 2020 as ZOOM teleconference.

Peaches Quinn makes Motion to Adjourn, seconded by Yvonne Manning-Jones
Adjourned 7:00 pm.

 

October 7th, 2020 CTAC Meeting Minutes draft respectfully submitted by
Yvonne Manning-Jones, New Haven