WILL-TV was looking for a way to more directly involve the public it serves in its 17-county coverage area throughout central Illinois. By adopting the concept of "day-in-the-life" picture books that profile the people, places, and happenings of a specific town or area, an idea formed. Instead of using still pictures, video would become the medium. And instead of printed captions, the people who did the videotaping would become narrators.

With a documentary series in mind, WILL turned to the people in the communities its serves to determine the content of each show. A town's people know what makes it tick; they know what makes it special. They experience their town as a home, all times of the day and all days of the year.

It would be through their camera lenses that the WILL viewer could gain a sense of a town’s character and culture.

Beginning with the town of Decatur, Ill., WILL turned the role of program producers over to more than 30 Decatur residents who showcased their town in A Day in Our Hometown: Decatur. With the freedom of a blank tape, camcorder and plenty of enthusiasm, they were on their way. 

A Day in Our Hometown: Decatur wins award!

Featured Towns
Danville 
Decatur
Bloomington-Normal
Champaign-Urbana

Videotaping Tips

Your town could be 
next!

Questions or comments  
about A Day in Our 
Hometown series 
should be addressed to:
Kimberlie Kranich
300 N. Goodwin Ave.
Urbana, IL 61801-2316
217-333-1070
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