WESTMINSTER- It's a television premiere unlike any other, right in the middle of the November sweep period. On Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m., watch Federal Heights, Northglenn, Thornton and Westminster Channel 8s for the debut of MetroBeat TV, a series of five dynamic new programs highlighting local people, places and happenings, all based on what viewers say they want to see. The two-and-a-half hour program block will be produced monthly, with production values that take locally produced regional programming to a whole new level.

The series is a unique collaboration of Comcast Cable and local municipal Channel 8s in the metro area, with plenty of input from local residents. The pilot project, in the works for over a year, is the first of its kind in the country. If research shows that viewers like what they see, the programming may well become a local staple and a template for use in communities throughout the U.S.

Topics and people featured on MetroBeat TV programs will come largely from ideas viewers submit on the www.metrobeat.tv website.
"It's a new model for local programming that steps beyond broadcast and satellite television by allowing viewers to define the content preferences for our region, rather than the content being driven by a broad common denominator that depends largely on ad sales," says Denver 8's Byron West.

"MetroBeat TV creates a unique opportunity for the public to bring forward topics, ideas and solutions, and to identify people who contribute to our common regional values," West says.

Sheila Willard, Comcast's Senior Vice-President of Government Affairs, notes that research shows viewers are keenly interested in local programming.

"MetroBeat TV gives Comcast the opportunity to partner with Channel 8s along the Front Range to benefit local viewers, while simultaneously creating a model for similar efforts across the country," Willard says. "We hope viewers will take the time to provide input on the website and watch the MetroBeat shows that interest them."

The five programs that will make up the MetroBeat TV lineup premiering Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. include the following:
 
·        Student Voices: A smart new series that gives the next generation a chance to explore the impact government has on their lives and to speak out about issues like school violence, teen sex, school testing, student rights, teen driving and school nutrition. In addition, the "Student Spotlight" segment showcases an outstanding student making a difference in his or her community. Hosted by Brian Harper.

MetroBeat Magazine: A fresh, fast paced television series that showcases local people, events and neighborhoods in the Metro area. Hosts Tyler Lopez and Shellene Cockrell cover everything from Local Legends and Colorado Classics to Delicious Detours and the local Entertainment Beat. In the City Extra! segment, a different community is highlighted each month, along with the events, attractions, people and places that make it special.

 

People to Watch: Much more than just an interview show, this program takes a revealing look at people who are making their mark in our community, whether well-known newsmakers or up-and-comers behind the scenes. Hosted by respected metro area news personality Bertha Lynn.

Inside the Cover: The Tattered Cover Bookstore, one of Colorado's most beloved institutions, is the setting for this upbeat and entertaining program featuring one-on-one interviews with literary stars and homegrown authors, Book Club Picks and Reader's Favorites. Hosted by Metro area radio personality Bret Saunders.

 

MetroBeat TV Presents: A showcase for one-time-only special programs produced by participating Channel 8 stations. Featuring award-winning documentaries, coverage of special events, concerts and community festivals, these locally produced programs will interest viewers across the region.