June 14, 2004 – WTJX-TV in conjunction with the St. Croix Chamber of Commerce will host an open house on Thursday at the television station's Gallows Bay studios.
The public is invited to enjoy a "rare behind-the-scenes" look at WTJX's St. Croix operation, according to Yvette deLaubanque, WTJX development officer. She said the station will be focusing primarily on local programming, while also introducing access to new digital technology.
DeLaubanque said the station, the territory's Public Broadcasting Service affiliate, now has four digital channels that can be viewed by the public without the use of cable lines. The open house will include a demonstration on accessing these channels via computer or television set, she said.
Also on display on Thursday will be the station's new, fully equipped production van. DeLaubanque said this state-of-the-art mobile production unit will bring the operations of the studio "closer to the public." Programs of locally recorded material can be produced from the van, she said.
Osbert Potter was recently named the new general manager of WTJX. Potter, former host of the station's "Behind the Headlines" talk show and current host of "Strictly Local," a Tuesday night radio program, brings years of production and programming skills to his new position. Under his direction, new local programs have been created and others are in the works.
The new offerings are "The Week in Review," a talk show hosted by Iris Kern, and "Talk About Town," a show that gives residents a chance to "sound off" for five minutes.
Soon to make their debut are "Both Sides," with host Natalie Nelson, and "School Days Are Happy Days," a program highlighting positive aspects of schools in the territory.
Refreshments will be served at the open house, and attendees will get a chance to win door prizes. For more information, call the station on St. Thomas at 774-6255.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Croix Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.