March 18, 2008

BMU TV tests new programming, asks for feedback

By LOU PENDLETON

Say you get home late and you want to catch up on the latest news, weather and sports quickly… Bryan Municipal Utilities cable customers can just flip to BMU TV channel 3 or 4 and get it all.

The utility is currently testing a new one-stop information service on its local BMU TV called Total Info. The service supplies viewers with up-to-the-minute news and entertainment all in one convenient location.

The new program delivers national and world headline news, business and entertainment news. It also provides current weather conditions, a 48-hour detailed forecast and a 7-day forecast specifically for Bryan.

Sports fans can get the latest national and college sports news and scores, major league baseball scores and schedules. Add in the financial market highlights and market details, plus daily trivia, horoscopes, and today in history, and the convenience value becomes obvious.

“Each segment runs three minutes for a total of 15 minutes about two times per hour,” explained BMU videographer Eric Herman. “The information is updated automatically and the font is large and easy to read. It runs between our local programs and the community bulletin board on channels 3 and 4.”

“We have until April 4 to try out it at no charge.” Herman said. “Then we will evaluate viewers’ feedback and decide whether to subscribe to it.”

The cost of the service is $900 per year, which would be paid by the utility at no additional charge to its customers. BMU has posted a survey question on its Web site to ask for viewers’ comments.