Brewton Television

Winner 5,001 to 10,000 population category

Brewton Television originated in 1996 as a no-advertisement, scrolling-text government access channel on the local cable television network when the Center for Excellence in Telecommunications at Jefferson Davis Community College was established. Soon, a new edifice was constructed and the name for the Center was changed to the Alabama Technology Network. A television studio was created in the new structure and a generous donation from a private industry provided for the purchase of necessary equipment. Through the years, broadcasts evolved from a VHS system to computerized technology with the capability for live, on-site broadcasts. In 2004, when the mission of the Alabama Technology Network changed, the television operation became an exclusive task of the City of Brewton.

The service has grown from airing programming only a few hours each day to operating 24-hours daily. Streaming video of some programs is transmitted on the Internet. Future possibilities include expanded programming, strengthening the connection with the local school system to utilize and train students in videoing school activities and developing a community advisory board for input, ideas and support to improve the efforts of the television channel in the community.