John Nowlan

"Street Cents," a teen-centered newsmagazine aired on CBC Television from 1989 to 2006, stood out for its focus on consumer and media awareness for young viewers. Created by producer John Nowlan and inspired by Britain's "Pocket Money," the series garnered critical acclaim, winning Gemini Awards and an International Emmy for Best Youth Programming. Ad-free like CBC's Marketplace, it prioritized unbiased critique of products and services, promoting safety, ethics, and youth empowerment. Despite its lauded inclusivity, the show ended in October 2006 due to declining teen viewership, leaving CBC-TV without youth-targeted programming.

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"Street Cents," a teen-centered newsmagazine aired on CBC Television from 1989 to 2006, stood out for its focus on consumer and media awareness for young viewers. Created by producer John Nowlan and inspired by Britain's "Pocket Money," the series garnered critical acclaim, winning Gemini Awards and an International Emmy for Best Youth Programming. Ad-free like CBC's Marketplace, it prioritized unbiased critique of products and services, promoting safety, ethics, and youth empowerment. Despite its lauded inclusivity, the show ended in October 2006 due to declining teen viewership, leaving CBC-TV without youth-targeted programming.

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"Switchback" was an hour-long interactive show for teens and preteens, featuring viewer calls, music videos, guest artists, and cartoons. Initially hosted by Stan Johnson in Halifax, it expanded to other cities, highlighting both regional talents and international acts. Airing from 1981 to 1990, it aimed to engage young audiences. In 1985, host Shawn Thompson faced arrest for throwing a doll named Kendini over Niagara Falls, in a Kentucky Fried Chicken bucket during a show segment. (He used cole slaw to cushion the doll's fall.) This act resulted in charges by Niagara Parks Police for park dumping and attracting a crowd. Thompson intended to spotlight neglected toys in a parody titled 'Doll Aid.' By 1988, the series cut some editions and faced controversy by removing its cherished long-term host, Stan Johnson. By early 1990, all editions of the program concluded due to CBC's budget reductions.

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