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Sweeps Month Offers Viewers a Variety of Choices

© F. Colin Kingston

February is what is known as a "sweeps" month. It is one of four months out of the year where the ratings of television networks and local stations are used to set advertising rates. As a result, network and station programmers routinely schedule blockbuster programming events, specials and supped-up versions of regular series in an effort to attract and hold viewers.

This week we examine a sampling of what the major broadcast networks have in store for viewers during February. Consult your local television guide for the exact times in your area.

ABC

"Alias" - Christian Slater guest stars as a prominent scientist kidnapped by Sloan in this two-part episode. Airdate: Sun., Feb. 9, 9:00 - 10:00 p.m., PST.

"George Lopez" - Steve R. Schippipa (Bobby from "The Sopranos") guest stars as a former bully from George's younger days. Airdate: Wed., Feb. 9, 8:30 - 9:00 p.m., PST.

"A Charlie Brown Valentine" - Charlie Brown tries to work up the nerve to ask the little red-haired girl to the Valentine's Day dance. Airdate: Sat., Feb. 15, 8:00 - 8:30 pm., PST

Meredith Wilson's "The Music Man" - Two-time Tony Award-winner Matthew Broderick stars in this updated version of the classic musical. The cast also includes Tony Award-winners Tony Kristin and Victor Garber ("Alias"). Directed by Emmy Award-winner Jeff Bleckner ("Hill Street Blues"). Airdate: Sun., Feb. 16, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m., PST.

"The Bachelorette" - Trista's choice is revealed on this two-hour season finale. Airdate: Wed., Feb. 19, 9:00 - 11:00 p.m., PST.

CBS

"Becker" - Ted Danson's "Cheers" co-star Kelsey Grammer guest stars as an old college roommate of Becker's. Airdate: Sunday, Feb. 9, 8:00 - 8:30 p.m., PST.

"Judging Amy" - Sharon Gless is reunited with her "Cagney & Lacey" co-star Tyne Daly in this episode. Gless plays a longtime friend of Maxine's who comes to investigate her friend's unorthodox work procedures. Airdate: Wed., Feb. 11, 10:00 - 11:00 p.m., PST.

"Survivor: The Amazon" - Jeff Probst hosts this 90-minute premiere of the latest installment of the series. This version pits men against women and takes place in the Amazon. Airdate: Thurs., Feb. 13, 8:00 - 9:30 p.m., PST.

"C.S.I." - This 90-minute episode examines the private lives of some characters. Grissom is attracted to Lady Heather, a dominatrix. Catherine (Marg Helgenberger) receives a frantic call from her daughter Lindsay who is trapped inside a car sinking in a canal. Airdate: Thurs., Feb. 13, 9:30 - 11:00 p.m., PST.

"Touched By An Angel" - The series celebrates its 200th episode as the Angels try to help a fellow angel who has lost faith. Lesley Ann Warren guest stars. Aidate: Sat. Feb 15, 8:00 - 9:00 p.m., PST.

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