Spanish Fork is a very unique city. Many residents and visitors alike, often mention that it has all the necessary amenities of a big city but with a small town feel that makes one feel cozy and safe. One of the unique elements that Spanish Fork has is their own internet network and service including local television station SF Channel 17.
As a teenager, I was very involved in extracurricular activities, particularly in the performing arts. I loved when SF17 would show up and record my performances. I would always find my performances on their channel later and watch them with my family. It was fun being able to point myself out on stage and tell backstage secrets while we watched. Even after my high school years were over, my family would frequently gather around SF17 to watch rivalry football games and the new performers stepping onto the stage where I once stood.
From the famous Fiesta Days Parade and Rodeo, to Spanish Fork Community Theatre Productions, and the local Miss and Mr Extraordinaire Spanish Fork Pageant, SF17 has been recording these local events professionally and warmly for years.
Kids knew they were part of something important when they saw the SF17 cameras setting up on the sidelines of their games or the back of the room where they were about to display their work. The crew members were always polite and professional and a delight to be around, as they patiently answered questions from curious youth.
SF17 is an invaluable asset to the community. With the advent of social media and streaming services, it was inevitable that the cable channel would need to evolve in order to survive. However, the recent announcement regarding the closure of the channel has left many in the community disappointed.
SF17 was a unique treasure of Spanish Fork City. As I see it, there is nothing like it in any other city in South Utah County. The professional equipment, crew and personal coverage of local events, by locals, is a gem that many in south Utah County appreciated.
While Spanish Fork officials have said that coverage in the city will remain on the City’s YouTube Channel, removing a channel that holds so many positive memories is a hard thing to come to terms with. Though the city hasn’t released many details about how they intend to provide coverage about events and important information pertaining to the city, it will be interesting to see how this unfolds.
I encourage all who value this local resource to please reach out to Spanish Fork City for more information on how SF17 is changing and how you can support SF17 and the fantastic service they’ve provided to the community through their professional local television channel.
