.- A new cable channel called New Evangelization Television (NET) is scheduled for launch on the evening of December 8 to provide a new center for religious, educational and cultural programming in the New York area.
The new station has taken an interesting tack in its marketing by creating what it hopes are “viral ads” that feature a short devil urging people not to watch the channel.
“You and I have toiled together to create filthy television. Now a new network is threatening our wonderful world of evil-tainment,” the devil says melodramatically, urging people not to tune in at the channel’s 8 p.m. launch time this Monday.
The devil also refers viewers to the site StopGoodTV.com where they are again asked to avoid watching NET.
NET, owned by Trans Video Communications, plans a line-up which includes a music video show, children’s programming, a culinary show, and programming about religious faith and believers in New York City.
Christopher Quinn, General Manager of NET, explained the goals of the effort, which replaces The Prayer Channel.
“At NET we’re all about positive and uplifting programming that will offer more than just news and entertainment,” Quinn said in a press release. “Our programming extends beyond what you’d expect to find on ‘the big networks.’ We offer non-traditional programming that strives to enrich people’s daily lives and we do it by serving it up with a positive perspective. We have also developed programming that will cater to the youth audience with music videos and an upcoming film festival, because we believe that just because it’s optimistic doesn’t mean it has to be dull.”
The show “iCTHuS.eQ,” hosted by Mari White, will present an “eclectic bend” of worldwide music. A culinary show “Breaking Bread,” hosted by Tati Amare, will highlight restaurants and eateries of New York City neighborhoods while also noting area culture and meeting local parish priests.
Other local programming at NET includes “City of Churches” on the history, architecture, and artwork of New York City churches. Another show, “Tapestries of Faith,” will examine the city’s myriad ethnic groups and their unique traditions.
The show “Mysteries of the Church” will examine the origin of certain Church traditions and their incorporation into today’s worship, while “The Real Deal with Doctor Mango” will give family and relationship advice.
Programming in 2009 will include the “Faith Film Festival” showcasing films and artists NET says “offer diverse views of people, experiences, beliefs and stories highlighting religious faith.” It also seeks to present films dealing with human rights issues and environmental conservation.
Charging no submission fee, finalists’ entries will be aired on NET and featured on the NET website.
NET plans to broadcast 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on Time Warner Cable Channel 97 and Cablevision channel 30. Its website is located at http://www.NETny.net
