'SoCal Connected' expands to nightly format on KCET-TV

By Scott Collins

Sept. 6, 2012 12 AM PT

KCET-TV is expanding “SoCal Connected.”

The former PBS station, now based in Burbank, will make the award-winning news and public affairs show a nightly offering starting Oct. 29.

Anchored by Val Zavala, “SoCal Connected” grew out of “Life & Times,” KCET’s nightly local news show that aired from 1992 to 2001, followed by “California Connected” for five seasons and then “SoCal Connected.” Until now, “SoCal Connected” has been weekly.

“We’re excited to now have the opportunity to provide our loyal viewers with informative news and revealing reports about the most pressing issues affecting Southern California residents on an expanded basis,” said Bret Marcus, the show’s executive producer as well as KCET’s chief content officer. “This season, we will continue to investigate the inner workings of Los Angeles and surrounding communities, while offering a daily recap of local headlines.”

Last season, “SoCal Connected” won a Public Service Award from the Los Angeles Press Club for exposing lavish spending at the Housing Authority of Los Angeles.

KCET left the PBS fold at the end of 2010 after disputes with the network over dues payments and other issues.

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Twitter: @scottcollinsLAT