It’s been nearly one year since we unveiled a dramatic redesign of The Canadian Jewish News. During the last 12 months, we’ve tackled the serious issues facing Jewish communities across Canada, and ruffled a few feathers along the way. At the same time, we’ve continued to celebrate the tremendous achievements and incredible potential of Canadian Jewry. It’s been a wild year.

But the journey has only just begun, and we’re not content to rest on our laurels. To be successful, we know we have to keep thinking big – because these days, it’s not enough to just put out a great newspaper every week. It’s essential that we keep working to grow the CJN brand. 

And with that in mind, I’m here to tell you about our latest venture: CJN TV. 

It’s a bold step forward for Jewish programming in this country – a 24/7 cable channel beaming the best of The CJN into your homes. 

Here are a few of the exciting shows you can expect to see on CJN TV.

Rabbi vs. Rabbi: Some of our readers have complained that the religious leaders featured in our popular Rabbi2Rabbi column sometimes come off as being a little too friendly with one another. We hear you and promise that definitely won’t be the case when rabbis face off on our new prime-time flagship. The gloves are about to come off, and no less than denominational superiority is at stake.

Dry Bones: The popular Jewish cartoon comes to life in this live-action series. Tune in Wednesdays at 9 p.m. as our lovable protagonist presents his unique takes on Israel and Judaism, mostly while talking only to himself. Ezra Levant stars.

The Alter Bocher: Ten single Jewish women vie for the heart of one eligible Jewish bachelor. And let me tell you, this guy is a real catch – a doctor, a lawyer and a rabbi. Think of it as our way of combating intermarriage. Stay tuned  – auditions begin soon on The CJN’s official JSwipe account.

Wake up with The CJN: Beginning at Neitz Hachama, CJN TV delivers comprehensive live minyan coverage from across the country. And when you subscribe to our deluxe package, you get access to just about every style of davening imaginable. Plus, our HD feed is so realistic, it’ll feel like you’re actually in shul.

Shabbat programming: We thought long and hard about how to fill our Saturday airtime. On the one hand, we didn’t want to offend anyone who won’t turn on a TV on Shabbat. But on the other hand, we can’t deny there are Jews who will tune in on the day of rest. With that in mind, here’s the compromise we devised: On Shabbat, we’re handing the reins over to Jewish federations, who will be in charge of programming in their own local markets. Find out who’s donating to federation, and exactly how much, with real-time updates – it’s all there on the handy scrolling ticker at the bottom of the screen. Viewer discretion is advised.

Adults only: Once the kids are asleep, check out Rabbi Shmuley Boteach’s new show, tentatively titled Fifty Shades Oy Vey!

Check your local listings, and Happy Purim!  — YONI