Two weeks ago WYMT launched Mountain News First at Four.  I am happy to report the viewer feedback is positive.  Many of you have told me this newscast fits better into your busy lifestyle.  That’s one of the reasons we decided on a 4pm newscast.   Still, I’ve had a lot of questions regarding the 4pm news.  I thought this was a good place to clear up some of those questions and rumors. 

First, the 4pm news is not replacing Mountain News at Six.  We are simply adding another half-hour of local news and weather to our daily lineup with the debut of Mountain News First at Four.   Some have asked, “Why 4pm?”  Well, there are several reasons.  You might consider this the television version of the old afternoon newspaper which focused on what has happened since sunrise.  Mountain News First at Four is a good mix of state, local and national news.  I should also mention the 6pm news is not a rehash of the 4pm news.  We strive to make these two separate newscasts with fresh content.

To be honest, I’m a newsman.  I’d like nothing more than to have a 24-hour “Mountain News” channel.  It’s all about convenience for our viewers.  We want to give people as many opportunities as possible to watch news from their hometown.   Let’s face it.  We’re all busy and the demands on our time are only increasing.  There are those who can not watch the 6pm news because of their jobs or family responsibilities.  I’ve talked with a number of people, teachers and nurses, who get home around four.   They have a couple of hours before they have to rush back out the door to pick up the kids from practice or some other school activity.  They do not have the opportunity to watch the 6pm news.  But, a 4pm newscast fits perfectly in to their schedule.  It also provides alternative programming to shows like Oprah, Ellen and Judge Judy.  We believe, given the option, most people will prefer to watch local news.

Then, there are those who work overnight.  They leave before six and get home after the late news.  The 4pm news is their only chance to catch up on the days events in their community. 

We are also streaming the news on the web for those business professionals stuck behind their desk.  The web is also an option for those without cable access.

I hope you’ll tune in and let’s us know what you think.  We welcome your thoughts, suggestions and criticism.

Viewer Comments 

Jeff, you too raise a question I have heard from many of our viewers.  We still have not heard whether Howard Gutman still has a role in the Obama campaign.  However, he sent an email to ABC News saying his comments were taken out of context, but said in the end, “I plainly went too far, for which I apologize.”   Here is a link to the article and Howard Gutman’s comments. Political Punch

As always, thanks for making WYMT-TV your source for news and information.  We appreciate your trust.

Neil Middleton

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