SCUGOG: Local columnist, author and award winning photographer Jonathan van Bilsen will be hosting a new television show starting next month. The Jonathan van Bilsen show will air its first episode on Rogers Cable television on Monday, November 18th at 7 p.m. “The format will be a talk show where I will be interviewing guests from Durham Region, such as politicians, entrepreneurs, community leaders, artists etc. and discover the story behind the person (similar to van Bilsen’s ‘Story behind the Person’ column, in the Standard Newspaper).” Mr. van Bilsen explained. He added his thoughts on having this opportunity. “I was flattered when asked to host the show. I have a broadcasting history, going back to my early days, when I did radio for a few years, I [also] worked for Rogers community television in Peel Region, and hosted a children’s talent show, called ‘Cowboy Pete Talent Time’.” The Standard News is the executive producer, and Claudia Sytsma and Rogers Television are producing the show. Mr. van Bilsen explained his goals for the program, are to maintain integrity while keeping it both humorous and informative. The episodes will run daily at 7 p.m., with new shows every month. Episodes are half an hour long, and there will be opportunities for commercial and community sponsorships. The first guest on the show will be the winner of the recent federal election’s representative for this community, MP Erin O’Toole. Mr. van Bilsen talked about what he’s learned from doing the monthly ‘Story behind the Person’ columns for The Standard. “Everyone has a story, which is interesting. I’ve learned that people are shy, when it comes to talking about themselves. It is important to have that information come out without embarrassing anyone. One of the biggest things I’ve discovered is that I have to ask the questions, and then let the person speak.” van Bilsen chuckled. Mr. van Bilsen said the experience working with Rogers to get this show ready, has been extremely positive. “It’s been a really great process. Everyone is very enthusiastic and dedicated,” he said. For those who don’t have access to Rogers Community Television, the show will be available online at ‘The Jonathan van Bilsen Show’ on Youtube, at rogerstv.com, and on The Standard Newspaper’s website. For more information about the show, please contact producer, Claudia Sytsma, at sytsma1@hotmail.com