With the primary elections approaching on September 14, Queens residents will be able to check out their local candidates via Queens Public Television (QPTV) during the first two weeks in September. The 2010 Candidate Forum will give candidates the opportunity to express their views and showcase themselves to potential voters. The forums will be hosted by Queens Courier publisher Victoria Schneps-Yunis, who – according to QPTV producer John Collins – brings her knowledge of politics and Queens to the table.
“We have been fortunate to have Vicki host our election coverage,” said Collins. “Without [The Queens Courier], these programs would be far more difficult for us to carry out.”
With a potential viewership of 400,000 people, Collins hopes the forums make a direct contribution to the political process.
“Our approach is to give the candidates an opportunity to voice their insights and bring important information about issues to the constituents of our districts,” said Collins.
The first forum airdate is scheduled for September 1 on QPTV at 8 p.m. A finalized version of the candidate’s appearances will appear in The Queens Courier chain of newspapers.
