3 Named To Simsbury's Public Access Team

Simsbury Community Media

SIMSBURY, CT — The local nonprofit responsible for filming and streaming local events and government operations recently announced some staff changes.

Simsbury Community Media (SCM), formerly Simsbury Community Television, announced this week new staff additions/role changes involving three staff members supporting production, programming, and community outreach.

Keith Bress has been named production manager.

According to SCM, he brings experience in community television, videography and information technology, with past work at WinTV, Cox North Central and as a staff videographer for the towns of Enfield and Coventry.

Bress holds degrees from Ithaca College and the University of Hartford and CompTIA A+ IT certification.

His animated short film, "Gotcha Day," was screened at the Los Angeles International Children’s Film Festival.

Cole Manasia joins SCM as associate producer.

A lifelong Simsbury resident, Manasia began as an SCM volunteer intern in 2023, and now supports community programming through editing, graphic creation, broadcast scheduling, and volunteer
training.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in New Media Studies from Eastern Connecticut State University.

According to SCM, he was hired onto the staff as a production assistant in early 2024 and was just recently promoted to associate producer.

Shannon Leary has been named manager of community outreach and business development, a newly created role.

She will lead efforts to expand SCM’s visibility, revenue, and community engagement through outreach, fundraising, and brand management.

A longtime Simsbury resident and former SCM board member, Leary has served on the Simsbury Board of Selectmen and many town commissions, including her current role as vice chair of the Simsbury Zoning Commission.

Her background includes corporate communications at Otis Elevator Co., founding the Greater Hartford Chapter of Autism Speaks, and ongoing work as a special education advocate.

Leary has a bachelors degree in journalism from Ohio Wesleyan University and masters degree in organizational behavior from the University of Hartford.

“We are thrilled to welcome this talented team to Simsbury Community Media,” said Don
Colantonio, president of the SCM Board of Directors. “Their dedication to Simsbury and
commitment to community programming will strengthen our mission.”

Simsbury Community Media is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) local access station serving the
community since 1984.

For more information on Simsbury Community Media, click on this link.