The Methuen Community Studios team spent an extra-special night IN FRONT of the cameras, when they accepted the Exchange Club’s Book of Golden Deeds award last month. This award is the national service club’s highest honor, recognizing those who selflessly serve the community.
Dozens of guests gathered at The Irish Cottage to toast MCS, previously known as Methuen Community Television (MTV), which first went live in 1996. The nonprofit, now located on Aegean Drive, was created by the city for the purpose of providing public and government access to a media-production facility, explained Exchange Club member Brad Jones.
And nearly 30 years later, boy have they grown! Not only do they film government meetings and various in-house shows, but they fan out across Methuen covering fun-filled events (like Methuen Day and parades), high school sports and breaking-news press conferences. They tell stories through documentaries as well as their “Methuen Now!” news show. Residents can count on MCS to conduct candidate forums and report on Election Day excitement as well as vote tallies. Their archives create a well-rounded story of Methuen’s people, history and events.
Want to learn about producing and/or editing a show or running a camera? MCS provides training. They also offer an incredible state-of-the-art podcast studio where your ideas can go worldwide!
“We embrace the idea that everyone in our community has a voice and we provide the tools to help them use it,” said MCS Executive Director Karen Hayden, upon accepting the award. “We do our best work when we work with our community. Our board of directors is made up of people who want to see this organization continue to grow and succeed.”
She thanked her team – comprised of staff and many volunteers – for all their hard work.
Anyone interested in learning about MCS’ shows (live and On Demand) and opportunities can find out more at methuentv.org. Community TV is available on Xfinity (channel 1072) and Fios (33 and 2133); Government TV is on Xfinity (8) and Fios (32). MCS is also home to Merrimack Valley Public Radio.
In 2026, MCS will celebrate its 30th anniversary. That’s sure to be must-see TV! So stay tuned …
