It was a full house at CTV Toronto's studios this Saturday, where the doors were open for anyone to visit.
Thousands of people attended the family-friendly event on Channel Nine Court, located north of Highway 401, just off of McCowan Road. A long line snaked around the building even before the doors opened at noon.
"We're supporting you guys and local TV," one woman told CTV Toronto. "We've watched you for over 30 years."
Tom Brown, a favourite CTV personality, hosted the event and greeted visitors before their tour of the CTV building. There were also hot dogs, pizza and sweet treats for people to enjoy.
CTV News Chief Anchor Lloyd Robertson, and CTV Toronto anchors Christine Bentley and Ken Shaw, were just some of the many personalities that were on hand to speak with visitors about what goes into producing a successful news show.
CTV Weather Specialist Dave Devall, who retired earlier this year, made a surprise visit to the open house, much to the delight of fans who wanted a chance to meet him.
Viewers also had the chance to visit the CTV National newsroom, Canada AM studios and got a close-up look of the CTV News chopper.
The public also learned about the plight facing local television stations like CTV Toronto.
The future of local television broadcasting is being threatened by Canada's existing regulations. Cable and satellite companies are allowed to take CTV and 'A' programming without compensating the station.
These companies are allowed to charge consumers for that programming even though they receive it for free.
Local stations like CTV are calling for a review of the system to ensure that local news has enough financial support to continue delivering a quality service to viewers.
With a report from CTV Toronto's Reshmi Nair
