Category Archives: Television Companies

TV Companies

Scripps Television Group

Posted on by 
by Kayla Schultz

Scripps logo via TheLAW.TV

“Give light and the people will find their own way” [1]

The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE: SSP; Price Per Share: $10.54) is a multimedia enterprise that owns 19 television stations in major cities across the nation and serves 13 different markets with locally owned newspapers.  Scripps has expanded its reach in the media universe by venturing into digital strategies and social gaming.  The company is also host to the annual Scripps National Spelling Bee. [2]

The Scripps Television Group is comprised of major network affiliates as well as independently owned stations.  This make up is broken down into 10 ABC affiliates, 3 NBC affiliates, 1 independent, and 5 Spanish language stations.  Scripps provides television services to the following cities: Bakersfield, CA; San Diego, CA; Cincinnati, OH; Cleveland, OH; Tulsa, OK; Lawrence, KS; Tampa, FL; West Palm Beach, FL; Denver, CO; Baltimore, MD; Phoenix, AZ; Kansas City, MO; Indianapolis, IN; Detroit, MI. [3]

KEY PEOPLE

Image courtesy of Scripps. [4]

Richard A. Boehne, President and CEO

Image courtesy of Scripps. [4]

Timothy M. Wesolowski, Senior VP, CFO, and Treasurer

Image courtesy of Scripps. [4]

Brian G. Lawlor, Senior VP of Television

CONTACT [5]

Headquarters: 312 Walnut Street 2800, Scripps Center, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Phone: 513-977-3000

RECENT NEWS

September 2012

On September 3, 2012, Scripps announced an exciting new venture for its local TV programming.  Rather than purchasing the popular syndicated staples Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy!, the television group decided to fill the time slots with original content.  The two new shows were to be called Let’s Ask America and The List.  According to Broadcasting & Cable, an accredited television business website, Scripps made a “massive bet on the programs, a game show and newsmagazine, that its top execs say fit right into the company profile of educating and entertaining the public.”  Though the endeavor was considered to be a long shot by most critics, Brian Lawlor, Scripps senior vice president of television, was confident in the company’s ability to produce quality content that would appeal to each of its well established, locally owned markets.  The new shows were set to release on September 17th of that year, but faith in the company’s innovative new plan was hard to find.  Critics of the new strategy stressed network-affiliate relations and how original creative content being aired on the affiliate station could cause even more tension to what is often considered a particularly tense relationship.  Another concern was the possible failure of either program.  Scripps didn’t have many syndication options to fallback on after dropping the two most popular syndicated programs in American television history from its repertoire.  To make matters worse, Jim Paratore was signed on to executive produce Let’s Ask America but unexpectedly passed away in the midst of production.  Scripps made the decision to forge on without the acclaimed EP and hired 60 new people to take charge of the newsmagazine show in stations all over the country.  Clearly, the company believed in the project regardless of what the critics had to say; to Scripps, is was much better to own its content than to rent it. [6]

Let’s Ask America logo via newsnet5.com

On September 17, 2012, Scripps aired its two new programs to seven of its TV markets. [7]

October 2012

October 2012 was a particularly slow month for Scripps Television Group.  The company operated as it normally would, with the exception of their new original programming.  Despite the relative normalcy of October, Scripps made a newsworthy contribution to the mobile television discussion, which seems to constantly be preoccupying the conversations among leading TV conglomerates.  Scripps made it known that they were in full support of the mobile TV movement and were willing to contribute the time and energy that its innovation requires.  The Chicago Tribune reported that the E.W. Scripps Company, along with Fox, NBC, Cox Media Group, Garnett Broadcasting, and Hearst Television, partnered up with Dyle mobile TV, which offers 90 stations in 35 markets. [8]

Dyle on the Samsung Galaxy S Lightray 4G courtesy of gottabemobile.com

November 2012

While October proved to be a not-so-newsworthy month for the Scripps Television Group, November brought the company multiple headlines that highlighted its overwhelming success.  Whether it was talk of the quarterly revenue report, the newly acquired financial support of Cincinnati, or the beautiful sight of a risk paying off, Scripps found itself in the news constantly and for good reasons.

On November 9, 2012, multiple television business websites reported the remarkable 79% increase in Scripps’ station revenue according to the company’s third quarter reports.  The television group reported $125 million for Q3 of 2012.  Apparently, the increase in earnings was “fueled by [Scripps] acquisition of McGraw-Hill stations,” as well as the unexpected success of “its two homegrown access programs, Let’s Ask America and The List.” [9]  Arguably even more influential on the group’s financial gains was the money generated from local, state, and national elections in early November.  Political advertisers spent $28 million to endorse their candidates on Scripps’ multiple stations.  The 2011 election campaigns only brought in $2 million for the TV group, so political advertising alone made a huge contribution the company’s overall increase in revenue for the third quarter. [10]

As a contributing member of Cincinnati’s booming economy, the E.W. Scripps Company received $750,000 from the city so that it could grow its digital sector.  The goal of the city was to have Scripps “create at least 112 jobs within three years and maintain 184 existing jobs.”  The expansion of Scripps’ digital group could only be beneficial to the TV side of the company.  With its continuing efforts to support mobile television and promote its new original programming, an expansion of the digital sphere would potentially open up an array of new possibilities for the TV group. [11]

On November 13, 2012, the E.W. Scripps Company announced a partnership with Arizona State University that will include an innovative new journalism program.  Together, Scripps and ASU have formed the Scripps Cronkite Journalism Career Program that will directly connect aspiring broadcast journalists to one of the country’s leading broadcast journalism companies.  Keeping with the company’s theme of educating the people of America, Brian Lawlor believes that this new partnership will “harness the creative energy, skills, and enthusiasm of recent ASU grads and channel it into shaping tomorrow’s storytellers.” [12]

The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication courtesy of Wikipedia

On November 14, 2012, the gamble that Scripps took by dropping Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! appeared to be paying off for the TV group.  The new original shows were consistently exceeding the company’s ratings goals, based on the Nielsen live-plus-same-day ratings.  They did particularly well among 25-54 year old women which put them ahead of the game financially according to vice president of TV content Bob Sullivan.  With this newly established viewer base, Scripps will easily be able to sell more advertisements and make long-term deals with companies who wish to target that particular demographic.  TVNewsCheck, a broadcasting business website, suggests that the more money that the shows rake in for the TV group, the more likely Warner Brothers, a 50-50 partner on Let’s Ask America, is to distributing the original content to multiple non-Scripps stations.  The company seems to be thrilled with the current success of its new content, but so is the competition, which picked up Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! in the seven vacant markets. [13]

On November 20, 2012, Audiovox Electronics announced plans for a new mobile TV “rear-seat car entertainment system” that would be fully “Dyle-enabled.”  Since Dyle is the mobile distributor of the Scripps TV Group, the new product launch would expand the company’s modest network to 35 markets and reach “approximately 55 percent of the U.S. population,” according to Broadcast Engineering. [14]

Audiovox rear-seat entertainment system courtesy of Voxx International

On November 30, 2012, Scripps announced the exciting new acquisition of Brian Bracco, former vice president of news for Hearst Television, Inc.  The long-time TV executive will be leading Scripps Kansas City station, which is a place that Bracco is particularly familiar with from his work with Hearst station in KC.  Brian Lawlor believes that “Bracco will provide strong leadership as KSHB” and that “he is vastly qualified to motivate and inspire his staff to become the go-to source for news and investigations in the market,” according to The Sacramento Bee. [15]

FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS

Due to Scripps enormous success in Q3, the talk of projected fourth quarter revenue has been extremely positive.  The current projection is that “TV revenues will be up about 80%,” according to TVNewsCheck.  The high percentage will mostly be attributed to the previously mentioned newly acquired McGraw-Hill stations.  Surely the earnings won’t come close to what the TV group raked in during the third quarter, with the election providing a lot of ad revenue, but the December month is sure to provide a good look at the “first pure month without political influence,” says Brian Lawlor.  Even without the boost from McGraw-Hill, Scripps’ revenue has been on a positive incline, estimating a 35-40% independent of the newly acquired stations. [16]

REFERENCES

  1. Scripps – Our Mission & Motto
  2. Scripps – About Us
  3. Scripps – Brands: Television
  4. Scripps – Our Leaders
  5. Scripps – Contact
  6. Malone, Michael (September 3, 2012). “Station Groups Spin Wheel on Homespun Shows”. Broadcasting & Cable.
  7. Scripps – Timeline
  8. Morris, Chris (October 2, 2012). “Mobile TV searches for breakthrough”. The Chicago Tribune.
  9. Malone, Michael (November 9, 2012). “Scripps Station Revenue Up 79%”. Broadcasting & Cable.
  10. Friedman, Wayne (November 9, 2012). “Election Money Fuels Big Gains For Scripps”. Media News Daily. Media Post.
  11. The Enquirer (November 9, 2012). “City Oks $750,000 for Scripps jobs”. The Community Press & Recorder.
  12. PRNewswire (November 13, 2012). “Scripps and Arizona State join forces to create innovative career initiative”. equities.com: Global Financial Network.
  13. Downey, Kevin (November 14, 2012). “Scripps Stations Survive Without Top Syndies”. TVNewsCheck.
  14. McMahon, Franklin (November 20, 2012). “Audiovox launches rear-seat Dyle Mobile TV experience”.  Broadcast Engineering.
  15. The E.W. Scripps Company (November 30, 2012). “Bracco to lead Scripps stations in Kansas City”. The Sacramento Bee.
  16. Messmer, Jack (November 9, 2012). “TV Soaring For Scripps In 4Q After Record 3Q”. TVNewsCheck.

Liberman Broadcasting

Posted on by 
by Daniel Grove

Liberman Broadcasting Logo Courtesy of Nasdaq

{1}

Liberman Broadcasting Incorporated

Contact
Address: 1845 Empire Avenue,
Burbank, CA 91504
Phone: (818) 729-5300
Website: www.lbimedia.com
Email: LBIinfo@lbimedia.com {2}

Overview

Founded by father-son duo Jose and Lenard Liberman, Liberman Broadcasting, Inc. (also referred to as LBI) is the largest privately held, minority-owned Spanish-Language television and radio broadcaster in the United States. With a primary concentration on the hispanic demographic, the company provides advertising opportunities to local markets and communities through product integration, talent sponsorships and appearances, and longform advertising. {3}

The company owns and operates Empire Burbank Studios and develops roughly fifty-six hours of programming a week, consisting of comedy, music, game, talk, and news shows, on their Spanish-language network: EstrellaTV. LBI also hosts the annual Premios De La Radio awards show featuring several hispanic artists. {4}  These are broadcast via the following stations:

An Overview as to what stations LBI Broadcasts Through on the United States West Coast

Important Figures {5}

-Jose Liberman: Co-founder and President
-Lenard Liberman: Co-founder, Executive Vice-President and Secretary
–Eduardo Leon: Vice President of Programming
–Winter Horton: Vice President of Programming for KRCA ch62 Television
–Blima Tuller: Chief Financial Officer

Major Competitors

–Univision Communications Inc.
–Telemundo: Owned by NBC
–Entravision Communications Corporation {7}

Company History

Founded in 1987, LBI began as small cluster of independent Radio and Television stations scattered throughout the Los Angeles and Houston city limits. Within the 1990’s the company then began to expand into San Diego and Dallas as they began to draw in more Revenue.

The company truly began to take off in the mid 2000’s with the catalyst being the $95 million purchase of five Dallas radio stations from Entravision. This gained LBI the ability to provide a variety of different programs towards Hispanic audiences throughout Texas, ultimately gaining them a strong grasp over the aforementioned demographic. {8} In the year 2007, Liberman Broadcasting purchased a UPN (now the CW) station KPNZ for $10 million in Salt Lake City Utah allowing them to expand eastward. LBI then began to expand down into Phoenix, Arizona in 2008 after a deal with Latin America Broadcasting for $1.25 million over a local Station, KVPA-LP. {9}

Estrella TV logo, courtesy of Estrella TV Reno

{10}

On July 1st, 2009, Liberman announced the launch of their brand new, exclusively Spanish-speaking network, Estrella TV, which then made its worldwide debut on September 14th that same year. The programming of this new network currently focuses on the 18-49 demographic, airing a variety of different shows in highly populated Hispanic markets. The introduction of this company showed (and still currently shows) a significant threat to both Univision and Telemundo, as it had both a station in every top 20 market and made itself a potential option for ad buyers as the current revenue in Spanish-language TV was rather dull growth in comparison to prior years. {11}

In recent years, Estrella TV has managed to become the 2nd highest rated network within Los Angeles after Univision, and with it has produced two of the highest rated shows within Spanish-language Televison {12}: “El Show De Don Cheto” and “Estudio 2“.

“El Show De Don Cheto” is a talk show starring “el hombre del vozarrón” (the loud-voiced man) Don Cheto where he interviews with Latino celebrities, parodies of famous viral music videos, and features popular Hispanic artists on to perform, much like that of “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno“.

Acting as LBI’s biggest show on EstrellaTV, “Estudio 2” is a variety show featuring live musicians, comedians, and other forms of entertainment from the Los Angeles region. The show has received high amount of praise from critics due to its original programming in comparison to other programs produced by rival companies. The show currently attracts men between the ages of 18 to 34 and allowed the network to reach out to 76 percent of Hispanic households. {12}

About 5 months after the purchase of a WWTO-TV (now WESV-LP) in Chicago, LBI faced its largest PR crisis in the history of the company.

In the beginning of April, 2011, several organizations across the country sent letters to the FCC due to the outrage sparked by popular LBI show, “Jose Luis Sin Censura“, due to its crude nature and tendency to insult the homosexual community. {13} This led to both Time Warner and AT&T to pull its advertising away from the program {14}, and which ultimately caused the show’s cancellation on August 9th, 2012. {15}

Recent News

September:

-09/12:

One LBI’s newest and most popular shows on EstrellaTV, “Mi Sueno Es Bailar” (or my dream is to dance), premiers for its third season. {16} The show stars several celebrities within the Latino community, such as Nora Salinas and Jose Luis Gonzales, and pairs them with highly trained dancers in a multi-round, elimination contest to see which celebrity shows the highest skill on the floor (much like ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars“). Outside of the competitive aspects, each episode involves the winning couple granting a wish made by one lucky Hispanic family. {17} The series aired its finale on November 16th.

October:

-10/04:

Liberman Broadcasting announces that they will bring the “El Shaka“, a drama that portrays the constant drug war within Mexico under the control of the drug lord”El Shaka”, and it 36 episodes to MIPCOM, the global market for all entertainment content. {18}

-10/08:

Estrella TV launches a brand new comedy series, “A2D3” (an abbreviation for “A Dos de Tres”), based around the sport of Mexican wrestling, or Lucha Libre. The program focuses around the character of Elverio Gudino, a man who wishes to become a professional wrestling under the pseudonym “El Veri Gud” (which ironically is the complete opposite of his status in the sport) and his strive to protect his identity from criminals who are trying to collect money from him. The series only ran for eight episodes, each one hour long, {19} and ended November 17th, 2012.

-10/11:

Investigative news magazine show “En La Mira con Enrique Gratas” (On target with Enrique Gratas) premiers on EstrellaTV. The show features famous Latino news Anchor Enrique Gratas and journalist Myrka Dellanos discussing popular stories that occur throughout both the United States and the world. {20}

November:

-11/04:

Estrella TV launches an advertising campaign with Toyota of Southern California by awarding a Toyota Tundra to a fan of the Network, specially designed and customized by Mexican-musical sensation, Gerardo Ortiz. The campaign involved both the network and its website using Ortiz within interactive content developed by the advertising and marketing team at Estrella TV and Toyota, as well as Castells Hispanic ad agency. {21}

-11/07:

In response to the large popularity of Psy‘s, music video, Gangham Style, Don Cheto launched a parody of it entitled: “Ganga Style”. The video contains several elements that are reminiscent of the South Korean rapper, but with Spanish lyrics and cultural elements and stereotypes of Mexican society. The video became viral instantly and led Cheto to move away from radio broadcasting, due to the low ratings he has received in the past few months, and into the internet medium via Youtube and Facebook. {22}

-11/12:

Logo for the 2012 “Premios De La Radio” awards ceremony, courtesy of Ticketmaster.com

{23}

Broadcast live from the Empire Burbank Studios, Estrella TV hosted the 13th Annual Premios De La Radio award show. After receiving a total of 562,000 viewers between the hours of 7 to 11 pm, it became the most watched program in Estrella TV’s history as a network. The show also ranked second in its highest total for the viewers within the 18 to 49 demographic, as it managed to bring in approximately 303,000 within the group. {24}

-11/19:

Kristoff Raczynski Tatomir, courtesy of Quien.com

{25}

Televisa Star, Kristoff (Krzysztof Racqynski Tatomir), leaves the company for EstrellaTV. Kristoff, who was one of the largest personalities for the Televisa, moved networks as Liberman Broadcasting provided him a deal to work as the host of their “bloopers” show. This led to massive lawsuit between the two companies, as members of Televisa found Kristoff accepting money from LBI to work for their company, which caused a massive breach in the exclusivity provision his contract (by which Kristoff is only allowed to host shows that are run by Televisa). {26} As of now, no news has risen regarding the case.

December:

-12/04:

Liberman Broadcasting announces that they have extended the expiration of private exchange offers and solicitation of consents to December 7th, 2012, at 5 p.m. A total of $207 million Old Notes and consents in the Discounts Notes Consent Solicitation will no longer be allowed to be withdrawn. {27}

Upcoming Projects

Currently, Liberman Broadcasting has three new shows that are still currently in the works. The first one being “La Supermodelo Latina”, a reality show produced by Michael Ohoven, in which sixteen beautiful Latina women are forced to live in a mansion with one another for several weeks while partaking in competitions for a chance to become a supermodel. The second show in production is “Chalino”, a drama miniseries that illustrates the life of the man who founded the Banda movement of the 1980’s, Chalino Snachez. Finally, there is “El Sueno Americano” (or “the American Dream”) starring and be produced by actor Hector Suarez and his son. The show would be a sitcom about a family just moving to LA and facing all the challenges that come from living in a foreign country. {28, 29} No set air date has been announced for any of these shows.

Works Cited:

{1} http://www.nasdaq.com/markets/ipos/filing.ashx?filingid=2713436 
{2} http://www.lbimedia.com/contact.html
{3} http://www.lbimedia.com/about.html
{4} http://www.yellowpages.com/burbank-ca/mip/empire-studio-30609825
{5} http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/private/snapshot.asp?privcapId=643286
{6} http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/cbs-dominates-broadcast-cable-shows-showing-strength-in-ratings/2012/12/04/99354e0c-3e55-11e2-8a5c-473797be602c_story.html
{7} http://www.hoovers.com/company-information/cs/company-profile.Liberman_Broadcasting_Inc.de35e9d98bfffd35.html  
{8} http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2006/07/31/daily42.html
{9} http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/115113-Deals.php
{10} http://www.estrellatvreno.com
{11} http://www.medialifemagazine.com/coming-a-new-force-in-hispanic-tv/
{12} http://www.lbimedia.com/Media/PressReleases/09.17.10%20–%20Estudio%20Beats%20Telefutura%20media%20alert%20-%20FINAL.pdf
{13} http://www.glaad.org/releases/040611jlsc
{14} http://www.glaad.org/2011/06/02/at-two-broadcasters-drop-programat-dos-estaciones-transmiso/
{15} http://www.towleroad.com/2012/08/spanish-language-talk-show-jos%C3%A9-luis-sin-censura-dropped-after-glaad-and-nhmc-protest.html
{16} http://www.cynopsis.com/editions/cynopsis/091212/
{17} http://www.c21media.net/archives/93527
{18} http://www.cynopsis.com/editions/cynopsis/1042012/
{19} http://www.cynopsis.com/editions/cynopsis/100112/
{20} http://www.cynopsis.com/editions/cynopsis/100512/
{21} http://www.portada-online.com/2012/11/12/sales-leads-nissan-dominos-heineken-wendys/
{22} http://hoylosangeles.com/news/2012/dec/06/el-empujon-que-necesitaba/
{23} http://www.ticketmaster.com/Premios-De-La-Radio-tickets/artist/1505367
{24} http://www.cynopsis.com/editions/cynopsis/111212/
{25} http://www.quien.com/photos/2012/05/02/sserur-175024-009.jpg
{26} http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr-esq/kristoff-sparks-legal-battle-between-392008
{27} http://www.marketwatch.com/story/liberman-broadcasting-inc-lbi-media-holdings-inc-and-lbi-media-inc-announce-extension-of-the-expiration-date-of-private-exchange-offers-and-solicitation-of-consents-2012-12-04
{28} http://www.cynopsis.com/upfront-2010-2/estrella-tv/
{29} http://telemundomediakit.com/2012/05/21/2012-upfronts-a-closer-look/

 

Ion Media Networks

Posted on by 
by Bailey Normann

Picture courtesy of Ion Media Networks [5]

601 Clearwater Park Rd.
West Palm Beach, FL, 33401 United States
(561) 659-4122

About

Originally founded as Paxson Communications in 1991, ION Media Networks was officially established in 2006 and has since made great lengths in all of its key areas including: general entertainment television, special interest television, and mobile television. ION is a leading American television provider and brings their content to nearly 260 million Americans. They deliver their entertainment “through innovation, offering quality content, new formats and innovative packages that are affordable and accessible to all consumers” [5]. At its helm is CEO and Chairman Brandon Burgess along with Chris Addeo in Marketing, Douglas Holloway in Distribution, and Jeff Quinn in Finance. Under the ION Media Networks Inc. flagship is ION Television, Qubo, and ION Life.

Photo Courtesy of Ion Media Networks [1]

Photo Courtesy of Ion Media Networks [5]

 

Holdings

Under the networks’ “Positively Entertaining” brand, ION Television offers an array of blockbuster movie titles, hit shows in syndication, and more recently, a jump into original content. The network reaches more than 1oo million US Homes and boasts it is “the only entertainment network with double-digit growth” [11]. It is available through all major distribution companies and is one of the fastest growing networks in America.

Qubo, ION’s “Good Fun” children’s network provides a safe space for childhood and adult viewing. It functions to provide content for preschoolers to tweens and tries to promote good role models and values in order to create more constructive members of society. It has also received numerous awards for its healthy programming and fight against childhood obesity. It has been recognized as the “Gold Standard” in kid’s television by the FCC and was also voted as “one of the more trustworthy sources for children’s programming” by the U.S. Government Accountability Office [12].

ION’s final special interest television venture is ION Life, a lifestyle channel that is

Photo courtesy of Ion Media Networks

committed to offering programming that promotes healthy and active individuals. Its programs focus on such topics as relationships, inspirational stories, adventure, and home design. It is available 24/7 and is distributed over-the-air and through cable and satellite providers.

Financials

In May of 2009, ION Media Networks hit a serious road block.  Under the deal of a restructuring agreement with a group of debt holders whom promised they would make its debt into equity, the network filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. With more than a billion dollars in liabilities and ten million in assets, ION rebuilt with a 150 million dollar funding commitment. However, by October of 2010, ION had resurrected from the ashes of bankruptcy. “Per Nielsen ratings data, ION Television averaged 1.12 million viewers in the third quarter of 2010, an improvement of 94 percent versus the year-ago period” [1]. This spur in growth is most attributed to the networks’ acquisition of shows such as Criminal Minds and Without a Trace and “from October 2009 through September 2010, ION has

Douglas Holloway – President of Multichannel Distribution
Photo courtesy of S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications [15]

grown its overall sales prime deliveries 72 percent to 1.01 million viewers, while improving 74 percent among adults 25-54 (450,000), and nearly doubling its delivery of viewers 18-49 (392,000 versus 205,000 in the year-ago period)“ [1]. Although ION is a private company and therefore does not publish their financial reports to the public, in a talk earlier this month, ION’s President of Multichannel Distribution confirmed that the company is continuing on its up-hill climb.

In the News

ION is also a leader in developing the future of mobile television and “co-founded the industry initiative to develop Mobile DTV technology in record time” [5]. This initiative, the Mobile Content Venture, or MVC for short, was also headed by NBCUniversal and Fox. In order to “mobolize” this project, these broadcasters plan to use the Dyle mobile TV service. Dyle mobile TV is working to turn Android and iOS devices into portable televisions and will allow customers to view local broadcast channels such as ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, Quobo, Telemundo, and Univision. However, this program is not yet covered in all markets. In a presentation this month at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, ION’s President of Multichannel Distribution, Douglas Holloway, expressed qualms about Dyle’s business model, which at the moment will be entirely based on advertising. Holloway also expressed his concerns about his company’s failure to move at a fast enough rate with the expanding mobile TV platform. He said that creating their own distributable platforms are at the moment nearly impossible. This is mainly due to the fact that ION television is entirely syndication based.

Continuing to strengthen its syndicated content, ION Television announced its acquisition of “Law & Order: Criminal Intent,” in early August of 2012.  This off-networking licensing agreement has given the network the rights to all 10 seasons including all 195 episodes [7]. Similarly, in the same month, ION also acquired the off-net rights to all six seasons of the CBS procedural drama “Numb3rs,” which fits in perfectly with the networks’ crime drama line up [14].

In late September, ION Television announced what would be their most successful programming of the fall season. On October 3rd, the network premiered the first match of the new WWE Main Event series. The new show was promoted with several promo ads, “featuring the WWE Superstars and Divas of Monday Night Raw and Friday Night Smackdown” [9]. The series will premiere live events that are filmed across the country, including an international matchup in Europe. Since its debut, WWE Main Event has been a serious contender in television ratings. Up against a presidential debate on its premiere night, this program, according to Nielson, “garnered the highest male audience in the last year with the most Men 18-49 (422,000), Men 25-54 (444,000), and Men 2+ (876,000)” and was also the #4 program on television among Men 18-49. [9]. This beat not only the male audience watching the presidential debate, but it also beat out ESPN and ESPN2 on the last MLB regular season game. CEO Brandon Burgess describes, “’Fans of the WWE are passionate and seem to have a knack for finding their favorite Superstars wherever they live. Needless to say, we are particularly pleased that WWE has found a new home on ION Television, and we congratulate our new partner in the success of the premiere’” [9]. Vince McMahon , CEO and Chairman of WWE, responded, “’We expect our fans will make WWE Main Event the number one show on the network as they have done for WWE programs with all of our other TV partners’”[9].

On October 9, it was announced that ION had created a new and much longer-term partnership with DIRECTV, a leader in digital entertainment service providers. This has extended ION Television’s contract with the provider for many years to come. Also, for the first time, the network will be offered in high-definition on DIRECTV and will also be available nationwide, from East Coast to West Coast.

Another piece of programming proving to be a serious asset for the network this fall is its “nail-biting cop drama,” Flashpoint. Back in late January of 2011, ION Television made a deal with CBS Television for the “rights to all existing episodes and future production of the popular police drama”[10].  In this deal, they were given the rights to produce the fifth season of the drama and all subsequent seasons that may occur, which celebrates the networks’ first experience in creating its own original content. On October 16 of this year, the fifth (and final) season of the original crime drama premiered on the ION Television network. The season will include thirteen, one-hour episodes produced by Pink Sky Entertainment and Avamar Entertainment in association with CTV and ION Television. According to a Canadian television website, the show is “averaging 1.7 million viewers, up 13% from last fall’s season average” [13].

Works Cited

[1] Crupi, A. (n.d.). ION Resurrects Ratings After Bankruptcy Scare | Adweek. Adweek        – Breaking News in Advertising, Media and Technology.  http://www.adweek.com/news/television/ion-resurrects-ratings-after-bankruptcy-scare-116251

[2] Hoover’s | A D&B Company. (n.d.). Hoovers | Company Information | Industry             Information | Lists. http://www.hoovers.com/company-information/cs/company-profile.ION_Media_Networks_Inc.1a21103c9917c587.html

[3] Ion Media Files Bankruptcy With Deal to Swap Debt for Equity – Bloomberg.             (n.d.). Bloomberg – Business, Financial & Economic News, Stock Quotes.              http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aYV7U84_mowg

[4] ION Life | Home. (n.d.). ION Life | Home. http://www.ionlife.com

[5] ION Media Networks | Home. (n.d.). ION Media Networks | Home.  http://www.ionmedianetworks.com/

[6] ION Media Networks | Press Releases. (n.d.). ION Media Networks | Home.  http://www.ionmedianetworks.com/press/hit-crime-drama-flashpoint-returns-to-ion-televisi?id=292

[7] Cable, L. R., & AM, 8. 1. (n.d.). ION Acquires Rights to ‘Law & Order: Criminal Intent’ – 2012-08-08 14:49:37 | Broadcasting & Cable. Cable Television News, Broadcast, Syndication, Programming & Local TV | Broadcasting & Cable. http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/488339-ION_Acquires_Rights_to_Law_Order_Criminal

[8] ION Media Networks | Press Releases. (n.d.). ION Media Networks | Home.             http://www.ionmedianetworks.com/press/ion-media-networks-announces-new-agreement-with-d?id=297

[9] ION Television’s ‘WWE Main Event’ Debuts With Network’s Highest Male Ratings in a Year – Ratings | TVbytheNumbers. (n.d.). TV Ratings, TV Nielsen Ratings, Television Show Ratings | TVbytheNumbers.com. http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2012/10/04/ion-televisions-wwe-main-event-debuts-with-networks-highest-male-ratings-in-a-year/151696/

[10] ION Television Acquires Popular Police Drama “Flashpoint” from CBS             Television Distribution | Business Wire. (n.d.). Press Release Distribution, Financial Disclosure, Online Newsrooms, PR, Public Relations, Investor Relations, EDGAR filing, XBRL, Breaking News, Business News, Financial News | Business Wire. http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20110125006261/en/ION-Television-Acquires-Popular-Police-Drama-%E2%80%9CFlashpoint%E2%80%9D

[11] ION Television | Positively Entertaining. (n.d.). ION Television | Positively                         Entertaining. http://www.iontelevision.com

[12] Qubo | TV Programming for Kids. (n.d.). Qubo | TV Programming for Kids.                  http://www.qubo.com

[13] Ratings: Flashpoint up 13% from last fall | TV, eh?. (n.d.). TV, eh? | What’s up in          Canadian television. http://www.tv-eh.com/2012/10/18/ratings-flashpoint-up-13-from-last-fall/

[14] Cable, L. R., & AM, 8. 9. (n.d.). ION Acquires ‘Numb3rs’ – 2012-08-07 13:30:15 | Broadcasting & Cable. Cable Television News, Broadcast, Syndication, Programming & Local TV | Broadcasting & Cable. http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/488283-ION_Acquires_Numb3rs_.php

[15] http://newhouse-web.syr.edu/newhouse_img/news/Holloway.jpg

Hearst Television

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by David William Olivas

Popularly known as (self-proclaimed) The First Choice in the industry, Hearst Television Incorporated is a major broadcast company with diverse holdings in a wide variety of geographic markets and active interests all fields of entertainment. The company was founded in 1997 as the Hearst-Argyle Company but is recognized as part of its father Hearst Corporation venture founded by William Randolph Hearst in 1928 (a company today with interests in newspapers, magazines, networks, TV stations, publishing, cable networks, internet businesses, and real estate). HTV owns and operates two radio stations and thirty television stations, predominately affiliated with either ABC or NBC Universal Television Distribution, and has also recently become a leading contender for the future of internet broadcasting. It is a nationally renowned newscasting company with a long history of award-winning journalism, once feared as much as Rupurt Murdoch’s News Corp was in recent years, now known only for its long standing loyalty to their clients. The company operates out of the Hearst Tower in Manhattan, New York City.

Frank A. Bennack Jr.

(Image courtesy of BC)
Frank Bennack Jr.

“We have grown from a single flagship newspaper in San Francisco to a New York-based global media and information leader whose 24/7 reach extends to more than 100 countries and whose voice speaks in over 35 languages. We are truly, as our 125th anniversary ad campaign says, “Media that moves the world.”

-Frank Bennack Jr, CEO

Hearst Corporation’s 125th Anniversary

Location

Hearst Tower
300 West 57th Street, 959 8th Avenue
Manhattan, New York City, New York
Tel: (212) 887-6800
Fax: (212) 887-6855
http://www.hearsttelevision.com/
Key Executives

David J. Barrett President & CEO
Jordan Wertlieb Executive Vice President
Frank Biancuzzo Senior Vice President
John J. Drain Senior Vice President, Finance
Roger Keating Senior Vice President
Philip M. Stolz Senior Vice President
Candy Altman Vice President, News
Brian Bracco Vice President, News
Emerson Coleman Vice President, Programming
Martin Faubell Vice President, Engineering
Suzanne Grethen Vice President, Marketing & Promotion
Kathleen Keefe Vice President, Sales
Alvin Lustgarten Vice President, Administration and IT
Barbara Maushard Vice President, News
Jonathan Mintzer Vice President, Corporate Secretary
Jeana Stanley Vice President of Financial Planning

 

History

The now-subsidiary company was incepted in the mid-eighties by founder and father George Hearst (1820–1891)–at the time, a U.S. senator. He entered the world of newspaper as a publisher in 1880 by acquiring the rights to the San Francisco Daily Examiner, and seven even years later he gave  the paper to his son William Randolph Hearst, who transformed the Examiner into The Monarch of the Dallies in 1887. William Randolph Hearst made it a point to buy and utilize the most modern printing equipment available to a late eighties publisher and, through the combination of his modernization efforts and the best known journalists and upstanding journalism around, completely transformed the paper into the legendary force it is today. Suffice it to say, the Examiner was a financial success and powerful influence within years. Then, in 1895, William Randolph Hearst bought the rights to popular publication The New York Journal, and his newspaper dynasty skyrocketed into a new era of big corporation publication. Before 1920, his chain of influence would reach from coast to coast.

Assets

As a television player, Hearst owns the largest number of ABC-affiliated stations and the second largest number of NBC-affiliated stations in the business with regards to size of audience reached (18% of total households in the United States). Hearst TV broadcasts all over the country. It also operates two radio stations in Baltimore, WBAL (Channel 1090) and WIYY (Channel 97.9). Hearst is known predominately for its finely tuned, hard-hitting newscasts, but also for engaging audiences through popular entertainment television and a variety local programming. As of 2012, the Hearst name extends to a sum of exactly twenty nine television stations. Ten of those are affiliated with NBC, thirteen with ABC, two through either CBS and CW, and finally a single MyNetworkTV affiliate. Its most recent inter-corporation acquisitions (originally a part of Hearst Broadcasting Inc.) are television stations KCWE, WMOR-TV, and WPBF, as well as radio stations WBAL radio and WIYY, all of these movements taking place 2009.

(Graph by David William Olivas)
CLICK TO ENLARGE

Recent Activity

In 2009 the company blocked public access to their financial records (21). Since then there has been no public release of any kind as to how the Television division of Hearst Corporation is doing financially. More so, in the fall quarter of 2012, Hearst Television managed to keep out of the news altogether from August 26th to November 15th. Starting on the 15th, however, the company was thrown back into the public eye when they released several statements addressing the state of their changing corporation, announced quite a few positional transitions and promotions within their subsidiaries, and made headlines alongside a few of the broader-spectrum changes in 2012 that were sweeping the world of mass media.

Joe Addalia

(Image courtesy of Audio Leveling)
CALM Act and Joe Addalia

On the 15th, Hearst Television’s Joe Addalia was chosen to publicly respond to the implication of a new CALM Act, which would require commercial-making advertisers to comply with clear cut, mandatory auditory limits in order to provide family consumers with quieter programming. Many broadcast companies reacted negatively, knee deep in the backlash from their advertising interests. However, Hearst (and Mr. Addalia) responded positively, re-stating their unwavering stance on loyalty to their long-time consumers and their goad of embracing the changes head on. (1)

John Humpries

(Image Courtesy of MySelda)
John Humphries

On November 30th, John L. Humphries was promoted to President and General Manager of Hearst Television’s WGAL station in Lancaster Pennsylvania. Humphries previously held a powerful position at Hearst Television’s Greenville, South Carolina station WYFF. (2) Also on November 30th, Brian Bracco (former station group Vice President) was named the new Vice President and General Manager of an NBC affiliate in Kansas City as well as a smaller station in Lawrence, Kansas. (3)

 

 

Two other staff changes only now being released in late Fall are that of Jordan Wertlieb’s new Presidency and David J. Barrett’s new position as Chairman, both of the Hearst Television as a whole. Frank A. Bennack, CEO of the company, said this with regard to the two promotions. “I congratulate [them] on [their] new roles and look forward to [their] continued stewardship of the expansion and success of Hearst Television.” (20)

Scheduled for Friday, December 7th, the 27th annual WTAE-TV Project Bundle-Up Telethon will continue Hearst Television’s tradition of senior citizen and children oriented community service in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, through a day-long telethon that won’t interrupt regularly scheduled programming. The details of Project Bundle-Up were announced through the WTAE website as well as a brief history of the project and summation of the Hearst media legacy. Sponsored by the Salvation Army, the telethon will feature an hour-long weather special as volunteers accept call-in pledges, and all proceeds go towards the Salvation Army. In the 27-year history of this program, more than 11 million dollars have been raised. (4) On an interesting side note, this year, the NFL Pittsburgh Steelers decided to team up with Hearst to help a younger audience shop for their winter coats.

Sources
  1. http://broadcastengineering.com/audio/hearst-television-targets-calm-compliance-29-stations
  2. http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/63884/john-humphries-tapped-to-be-wgal-gm
  3. http://www.mediabistro.com/tvspy/kshb-names-brian-bracco-general-manager_b71602
  4. http://www.wtae.com/news/27th-Annual-WTAE-TV-Project-Bundle-Up-Telethon-Airs-Friday-December-7th/-/9681432/17608332/-/g89qsg/-/index.html
  5. http://www.mediabistro.com/tvspy/david-j-barrett-named-chairman-jordan-wertlieb-named-president-of-hearst-television_b72342
  6. http://www.hearsttelevision.com/our_company/timeline/index.html
  7. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Randolph_Hearst
  8. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hearst_Television
  9. http://www.hearsttelevision.com/our_company/about_Our_Company/index.html
  10. http://bit.ly/TFSCo0
  11. http://www.tvnewscheck.com/article/64044/barrett-wertlieb-upped-at-hearst-TV
  12. http://broadcastengineering.com/audio/hearst-television-targets-calm-compliance-29-stations
  13. http://www.kansascity.com/2012/11/30/3942329/former-kmbc-boss-bracco-now-kshb.html
  14. http://www.deadline.com/2012/12/hearst-television-david-barret/
  15. http://www.hearstfdn.org/
  16. http://www.hearstfdn.org/about/about-hearst-foundations/
  17. http://www.hearstfdn.org/about/william-randolph-h earst/
  18. http://www.hearsttelevision.com/our_company/our_stations/index.html
  19. http://www.hearsttelevision.com/our_company/timeline/index.html
  20. https://plus.google.com/117276923788526037867/posts
  21. http://www.hearsttelevision.com/financial-information/index.html

Entravision

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by Tucker Warner

Entravision Communications Corporation logo. Photo courtesy of Entravision.

Entravision Communications Corporation

2425 Olympic Boulevard
Suite 6000 West
Santa Monica, California 90404
Tel: 310-447-3870
Fax: 310-447-3899

Website: http://www.entravision.com

Company Overview:

Entravision Communications Corporation is a media company founded in Santa Monica, California in 1996, and focuses on Spanish-language content designed to appeal to Hispanic Americans.  Currently, Entravision owns both radio and television stations, primarily in markets with a large Hispanic influence or population, and has television stations in 19 of the top 50 Hispanic markets in the United States. [1] Their 53 television stations, with only a few exceptions, are affiliates for Spanish language networks, and are the largest affiliate groups for Univision and TeleFutura, two networks owned by the same parent company, Univision Communications, Inc. [2]

The majority of Entravision’s stations are affiliates for Univision. Photo courtesy of Univision.

The deal that Entravision currently has in place with Univision and TeleFutura allows Entravision to have exclusive rights to broadcast those networks in the chosen markets until at least 2021. [3] Entravision also has affiliation agreements with Telemundo, Fox, MyNetworkTV, and The CW, all of which are scheduled to expire by 2015.  The Entravision affiliates for these networks are all located in markets with a large Hispanic population.

Financials:

Entravision is a publicly traded company, on the New York Stock Exchange as EVC.  The Fall 2012 quarter has been positive for Entravision, as the stock has risen in value from $1.30 to $1.52 as of closing on December 6.  This  was helped by a large increase in value during sweeps week near the end of November. [4]

Daily stock price (in dollars) of Entravision for the Fall 2012 quarter. Screenshot courtesy of data from the New York Stock Exchange web page.

On December 4, the staff of The Street announced that they had upgraded the rating of Entravision’s stock from “sell” to “hold.” [5] This follows the aforementioned substantial increase in market value at the end of November.  As the staff of The Street notes, “[Entravision’s] revenue growth has slightly outpaced the industry average of 15.8%.  Since the same quarter one year prior, revenues rose by 16.7%.” [5]

Entravision reported a net revenue of $131,490,000 from the television branch for the 2011 fiscal year. [3] According to the 2011 annual report, television-based revenue does not see much change during non-FIFA World Cup years, but they do expect to report a slight increase in 2012 due to the prevalence of political advertising. [3] The annual report states that about 86% of television-based revenue in 2011 came from advertising, with 40% coming from national advertising.  Because of the elections, it is likely that this percentage would have increased in 2012.

Administration:

Walter F. Ulloa has been Chairman and CEO of Entravision since the company’s opening in 1996. [6] Ulloa is still very involved in Entravision’s public dealings, and made a presentation to potential investors in New York, NY on December 4. [7] This presentation was open to the public through a stream linked through the investor information section of Entravision’s web page.

Walter F. Ulloa, Chairman and CEO of Entravision. Photo courtesy of Entravision.

Christopher T. Young is Executive Vice President, Treasurer, and CFO of Entravision. Photo courtesy of Entravision.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christopher T. Young has worked for Entravision since 2000, taking positions within the outdoor advertising division until 2008, when it was sold to Lamar Advertising Company. [8] Since then, Young has been Executive Vice President, Treasurer, and CFO of the company.  Like Ulloa, Young has become somewhat of a public figure on behalf of the company, presenting at both the 40th UBS Annual Global Media and Communications Conference with Ulloa in New York on December 4th, and also the previous afternoon at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Leveraged Finance Conference in Boca Raton. [7]

Recent Events:

The new logo for XHRIO-TV, Entravision’s MundoFox affiliate in McAllen, Texas. Due to the station’s branding, its callsign appears as XRIO. Photo courtesy of MundoFox and XHRIO-TV.

On August 13, 2012, Fox International Channels and Colombia’s RCN Televisión launched MundoFox, a Spanish-language network with 50 current affiliates in the United States. [9] One of these affiliates is XHRIO-TV, an Entravision station in McAllen, Texas, that was formerly the region’s exclusive Fox affiliate.  The transition period has lasted through Fall 2012, as Fox searched for a new network affiliate in the McAllen region, and the Rio Grande Valley area (which contains McAllen) became adjusted to the new network, which stayed on the same channel that housed the previous network tenant of the station.

As part of the company’s increased efforts in creating some consumer loyalty to the parent company, rather than just to the individual stations, Entravision has recently sponsored some charitable and outreach events in cities that have Entravision stations.  On November 14, the National Hispanic Media Coalition hosted their annual Impact Awards in Washington, DC, where Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Rep. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D-CA), two Hispanic-Americans, were honored for their service to the Hispanic community. [10] Two of the sponsors for this event were Entravision and MundoFox.  Additionally, Entravision’s contributions as media sponsors to Colorado Gives Day 2012, a charity drive within the state of Colorado that raised approximately $15 million for various nonprofit groups, were considered “instrumental” by the organizers of the event. [11] While there were several other media sponsors for both of these events, Entravision’s intent to promote themselves as a company who will help the local communities in many ways was noticed by many members of the public, creating a lot of positive attention for the company and its local affiliates.

Lizette Alvarez of the New York Times noticed the role that Hispanic and Spanish television stations had in the election; specifically, how they contributed to high voter turnout within Hispanic communities. [12] The article cites a public service announcement from Natalie Perez (which can be viewed below this paragraph), a news anchor at WVEA-TV, an Entravision affiliate for Univision in the Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg, Florida markets, in which she encourages Hispanic-Americans to vote in the Presidential election.  According to Ben Monterroso, executive director at Mi Familia Vota, a nonpartisan voter education group with a specific focus on Hispanic-Americans, the Spanish media “played a tremendous role.” [12] With Entravision being at the forefront of Spanish media in Hispanic markets, it can be said with certainty that a significant part of the media’s influence on the increase in Hispanic voters came in some part because of Entravision’s efforts.

Lorena Inclán changed stations, networks, and languages in moving from Univision’s WVEN (an Entravision station) in Daytona Beach to CBS’s WTEV in Jacksonville. Photo courtesy of WVEN and Univision.

On November 28, Lorena Inclán, a popular on-air journalist newsdesk at WVEN, an Entravision affiliate for Univision in Daytona Beach and Orlando, Florida, officially began her new job at WTEV, the CBS affiliate in Jacksonville. [13]  While this is not an event that will cause too much stress to the network itself, it does represent a fear that many Spanish-language media outlets have, especially in television, which is that their top talent will leave for English-language outlets that bring wider exposure and typically a higher salary as well.

More positive news for Entravision came in the form of a station getting television broadcast rights to a college basketball rivalry game.  WJAL, an affiliate-independent station owned by Entravision whose signal is broadcast to Hagerstown, Maryland; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Washington, DC; northern West Virginia; and in many other neighboring regions, received the rights to broadcast the interstate rivalry game between West Virginia and Marshall. [14] Though WJAL did not receive exclusive rights, WJAL was able to broadcast a high-interest live event- one that is typically picked up by a national sports network- and one that attracts many local viewers.

Sources:

1. Entravision Communications Corporation: Investor Information http://www.entravision.com/investor-info/

2. Entravision Communications Corporation: TV http://www.entravision.com/tv/

3. Entravision 2011 Annual Report http://www.snl.com/IRWebLinkX/corporateprofile.aspx?iid=4121685

4. New York Stock Exchange: Entravision http://www.nyse.com/about/listed/lcddata.html?ticker=EVC&fq=D&ezd=1Q&index=4

5. The Street update: Entravision http://www.thestreet.com/story/11782384/1/entravision-communications-corporation-stock-upgraded-evc.html

6. Forbes: Walter F. Ulloa http://www.forbes.com/profile/walter-ulloa/

7. Sacramento Bee: Entravision To Present At Investor Conferences http://www.sacbee.com/2012/11/30/5020964/entravision-communications-corporation.html

8. Reuters: Entravision Sells Outdoor Advertising Operations http://www.reuters.com/article/2008/05/19/idUS126783+19-May-2008+PRN20080519

9. RBR.com: MundoFox Launches http://rbr.com/mundofox-launches-across-the-country/

10. El Tiempo Latino: NHMC Holds Impact Awards http://eltiempolatino.com/news/2012/nov/17/coalicion-honra-menendez-y-roybal-allard/

11. Herald Online: Colorado Gives Day Raises Approximately $15 Million http://www.heraldonline.com/2012/12/05/4463187/colorado-gives-day-raises-approximately.html

12. New York Times: For Latino Groups, Grass-Roots Efforts Paid Off http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/28/us/politics/for-latino-groups-grass-roots-efforts-paid-off-in-higher-number-of-voters.html?ref=lizettealvarez&_r=0

13. Media Bistro: Lorena Inclán Joins WTEV In Jacksonville http://www.mediabistro.com/tvspy/lorena-inclan-to-join-wtev-waws-in-jacksonville_b71187

14. WSAZ: Men’s Capital Classic Set For Wednesday http://www.wsaz.com/sports/headlines/Mens-Capital-Classic-Set-for-Wednesday-182078161.html

Daystar Television

Posted on by 
by [Justin Swope]

Daystar Television Network is a religious broadcast network centered in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area in Texas. The network focuses on Christian programming meant to evangelize and spread the scriptures to its viewers. Daystar Television was founded by Marcus Lamb and his wife, Joni Lamb on New Year’s Eve 1997.  Holding over 70 major television stations in the United States and a number of stations worldwide, Daystar functions under its parent company, Word of God Fellowship, Inc. The religious network’s primary objective is to present valuable programming that effectively preaches the “good news” to its followers. Due to its progressive expansion, Daystar has left its mark as the fastest growing Christian network in the world. [1]

History

Marcus Lamb and his wife Joni moved into Dallas, Texas in 1990, striving to construct a brand new evangelical television station. KMPX-TV 29 went on air in 1993, but in 1997 the couple relocated to a larger facility in the Dallas-Fort Worth television market region. Thus, Daystar Television Network was initiated on New Year’s Eye 1997, beginning with a telecast from Bishop T.D. Jakes. Currently, Daystar is situated in its International Ministry Center, equipped with two cutting-edge studios. [1]

Major Competitor

Trinity Broadcasting Network

Key Executives

Marcus Lamb: Co-Founder, President and CEO

Joni Lamb: Vice President and Co-Founder

 Steve Gray Appearance

Steve Gray, the writer and executive producer of the religious comedy known as 3 Blind Saints appeared on Daystar’s show, Celebration on November 20 to promote and talk about the film. 3 Blind Saints was scheduled for DVD release on that day. [2]

Daystar Assists Hurricane Sandy Recovery Efforts

In the midst of the damage and destruction caused by Hurricane Sandy, Daystar announced on November 7 that they had pledged a donation of $200,000 to contribute to relief efforts in New Jersey. The network also donated $10,000 to the American Red Cross to assist their emergency responses in the northeast regions affected by the hurricane. [3]

Joni Lamb’s Controversial Statement

In the midst of the 2012 presidential election on November 6, while on her talk show Joni, host Joni Lamb made a divisive comment about Christianity in the United States. Kelly Shackelford of the Liberty Institute made a guest appearance on the show to talk about a legal battle between a high school valedictorian who wished to include a prayer with her graduation speech and the family of an agnostic peer who opposed the idea of a prayer being articulated in a public school. In response to the issue, Joni Lamb expressed her personal thoughts, stating that “you shouldn’t live here” if one is bothered by prayers since the United States is, according to Lamb, a “Christian society”. The statement stirred up resentment among political blogs such as the Daily Kos, Right Wing Watch, and Opposing Views. [4]

Joni’s Controversial Statement:

[5]

Refreshing Times Conference

From November 1 through November 3, Daystar hosted its free-to-the-public Refreshing Times Conference. Marcus and Joni Lamb were both present to facilitate the event. This annual religious convention served to unite fellow Christian followers as well as Marcus and Joni Lamb themselves. This 3-day conference also brought together some respected religious speakers, like John Hagee, T.D. Jakes, and John Paul Jackson. The conference transpired at the Fort Worth Convention Center and proudly celebrated its tenth anniversary. Additionally, the event featured performances from Joni Lamb and the Daystar Singers and Band, a diverse, religious  musical group. The event brought together believers from across the world. Furthermore, a DVD package of the event was made available on Daystar’s website, consisting of footage from the event. [6], [7]

Refreshing Times Conference 2012:

[8]

Extension into California and the Philippines

As of October 23, 2012, Daystar has broadened to cover northern regions of California and eight different regions of the Philippines. Viewers in California cities, such as Berkeley, Cupertino, Fairfield, Novato, and Pleasanton, can now receive Daystar programming on Comcast’s channel 234. [9]

Coverage of the Messiah in Jerusalem

As announced on October 1, 2012, in an effort to provide live coverage of the anticipated descent of Jesus Christ from the Mount of Olives, Daystar has positioned a webcam from its terrace overlooking the city of Jerusalem. After expanding its purview to a television studio in Jerusalem, the network is now contending with the Trinity Broadcasting Network, who purchased the adjacent studio in Jerusalem, to deliver unprecedented footage of the phenomenon. The network’s anticipation has resulted from accounts in the Christian Bible, which predicts the return of the major biblical figure, Jesus Christ. Nonetheless, Daystar’s motive for entering the city has also been to spread Christianity in Israel. Moreover, the network already broadcasts English programming in Israel with access to both cable and satellite television. [10], [11]

 Daystar Hosts “Sharathon”

From August 20 through September 3, in an effort to reward its dedicated viewers and contributors, Daystar hosted its exclusive “Fall Sharathon.” The Sharathon included religious proclamations, singing, and relevant news from prominent traveling ministers, such as Perry Stone and Robert Morris. The program emphasized the major contributions from Daystar’s partners, those who made it possible for the network to augment its international and nationwide coverage. [12], [13]

Fall Sharathon Overview:

[14]

Daystar’s Involvement in Israel

Daystar has been notable in the past few years for establishing positive relations with the government of Israel. Moreover, the network has striven to disseminate its messages to the Israeli people. Daystar is the only Christian network accessible via Yes satellite and HOT cable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Not only has Daystar purchased a new station to cover the alleged return of the Messiah in Jerusalem, but the network also has sponsored several initiatives in Israel to help strengthen its economy. One is the Olive Tree Initiative, a project designed to strengthen agriculture in Israel. Through contributions and donations from the network’s partners, the initiative has planted numerous trees dedicated to the nation of Israel. [15], [16]

 Satellite Coverage

In addition to its availability in the United States, Daystar is notable for its immense satellite handling, delivering its evangelical programming to not only a national audience, but also an international one.

Daystar reaches a total of approximately 100 million households in the United States alone and a total of about 680 million households worldwide. To make this possible, the network owns 13 satellites that provide programming across the globe. Furthermore, viewers can connect to Daystar in the United States through providers such as Verizon FIOS, Direct TV, and Dish Network.

[17], [18]

 Programming and Distribution

Daystar broadcasts its programming from its headquarters in Texas so that its shows appear at the same times across the globe, depending on the viewer’s time zone. Thus, every viewer has access to the exact same programming. In the United States, for instance, each station receives equal coverage. In addition to its substantial international coverage, Daystar owns stations in several key markets in the United States. These key markets are listed below (those in the top 50 markets).

Call Letters          Market          Market Ranking          TV Homes          % of U.S. 

KDTN            Dallas-Ft. Worth             5                        2,588,020            2.267

WYDN                  Boston                    7                        2,366,690            2.073

WDDN-LD    Washington, D.C.           8                        2,359,160            2,066

KLTJ                   Houston                  10                        2,215,650            1.941

WUDT-CA           Detroit                     11                       1,845,920            1.617

KWDK           Seattle-Tacoma            12                       1,818,900            1.593

KDPH-LP            Phoenix                   13                       1,812,040            1.587

KDTP-LP             Phoenix                   13                       1,812,040            1.587

KRMT                  Denver                    17                       1,566,460            1.372

WDTI                Indianapolis               26                       1,089,700            0.954

KCBU            Salt Lake City               33                        917,370              0.803

KUTF             Salt Lake City               33                        917,370              0.803

KOCM          Oklahoma City              41                        718,770              0.630

[19], [20], [21]

Original Programming

Celebration

Check the Sound

Empowered by the Spirit (with Marcus Lamb)

Gospel Music Showcase

Joni

Reflections

[22]

Future

Daystar has not announced any other upcoming news or events this year, but they hope to continue bringing their original content to their audience as they await progress in Jerusalem with the alleged return of the Messiah.

Contact Information

Address: 3901 Hwy 121, Bedford, Texas 76021

Phone: (817) 571-1229

Fax: (817)-571-7458

Email: Partners@Daystar.com

[23]

References

[1] About Daystar Television Page

[2] Steve Gray Appearance on Daystar – The Business Journals

[3] Daystar Responds to Hurricane Sandy

[4] Joni Lamb’s Statement About “Christian Society” – Opposing Views

[5] Joni Segment About “Christian Society” – Youtube

[6] About the Refreshing Times Conference

[7] Refreshing Times Conference DVD Details

[8] Refreshing Times Conference Overview – Youtube

[9] Daystar Expands in California and the Philippines

[10] Daystar Prepares for the Messiah in Jerusalem – LA Times

[11] Catching Jesus’ Return in Jerusalem – The Blaze

[12] Sharathon News

[13] About Daystar’s Fall Sharathon

[14] Fall Sharathon 2012 Overview – Youtube

[15]  About Daystar Israel

[16] Daystar Activity in Israel

[17] Daystar Satellite Coverage

[18] Daystar Ways to Watch

[19] Daystar On-Air Schedule

[20] Daystar TV Stations – Station Index

[21] Nielsen TV Market Estimates – tvb.org

[22] Daystar Original Programming

[23] Contact Daystar Television

Photos:

Daystar TV Logo Courtesy of Living Stone Ministries 

Photo of Marcus and Joni Lamb Courtesy of BlackChristianNews.com

Daystar Satellite Coverage Map Courtesy of Daystar.com

 

 

 

Cox Media Group

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by Geri Levin

[14]

Cox Media Group (CMG) is a media company that specializes in uniting broadcasting, publishing, direct marketing, and digital media. CMG is one of the five companies that make up a national top ten company, Cox Enterprises. CMG owns and operates one of North America’s leading direct marketing companies, Valpak, and additionally is responsible for the national advertising rep firms of Cox Reps. [1]

History:  

James M. Cox founded Cox Enterprises in 1898 with the purchase of the Dayton Evening News (now called the Dayton Daily News). [2]

James M. Cox

Portrait of James M. Cox. Image courtesy of authentichistory [15]

After Cox took control of The Atlanta Journal newspaper and WSD in 1939, he then established South’s first television station in Atlanta, WSB-TV, in 1948. [2]

As the years passed, Cox Enterprises became one of the first company in the cable television industry. [2]

The enterprise expanded by assembling four different branches. The four companies that make up Cox enterprises is Cox Communications, Manheim, Cox Media Group and Cox Digital Solutions. [2]

About:

Cox Media Group controls 15 broadcast television stations including one local cable channel. They also own 86 radio stations, 8 daily newspapers, more than a dozen other publications that are not daily and more than 100 digital services. Operating in more than 30 media markets the company reaches up to 52 million Americans. [1]

Reaching 29 cities in 17 States across the United States of America [3], Cox Media Group delivers numerous media outlets to different markets insuring that people get the latest and updated information. The companies that are affiliated with CMG include ABC, Fox, Independent, MyNetworkTV, CBS and NBC. [4]

Leadership:

Doug Franklin

Doug Franklin, President. Image courtesy of Cox Media Group [16]

Bill Hoffman

Bill Hoffman, Executive VP. Image courtesy of Cox Media Group [17]

Neil Johnston

Neil Johnston, Executive Vice President, Strategy & Digital Innovation. Image courtesy of Cox Media Group [18]

Broadcast Television:

One of the major branches that brings in a lot Cox Media Group’s annual revenue is the television stations that the company owns and operates. With up to 15 stations as well as one local cable channel, CMG broadcasts in 11 markets. The companies that are affiliated with CMG include ABC, Fox,, MyNetworkTV, CBS, NBC and some are independently owned. [4]

Each market has either one or two stations in that area:

  • The Oakland, San Franciso and San Jose market has the station KTVU which is affiliated with Fox and KICU-TV, an Independent station. [6] 
  • The stations that are located in Jacksonville, Florida are WAWS, affiliated with Fox and WTEV-TV, (the most watched television station [5]) a CBS company. [6]
  • Broadcasting in Orlando and Daytona Beach, Florida, are both an ABC affiliated station, WFTV and an independently owned station, WRDQ. [6] 
  • In Atlanta, there is only one major broadcasting station is WSB-TV, associated with ABC. [6] 
  • Reno, Nevada’s stations are KRXI-TV, which is a fox station, and KAME-TV, a MyNetworkTV station. [6]
  • In Charlotte, NC the stations include WSOC-TV, affiliated with ABC, and the station WAXN-TV, which is an independent station. [6] 
  • Dayton, Ohio’s main station is a CBS station, WHIO-TV [6]
  • Both Stuebenville, OH and Wheeling, W.V. have the same broadcast station which is WTOV-TV. Operated by NBC. [6]
  • The broadcasting stations in Tulsa, OK are KOKI-TV and KMYT-TV. KOKI-TV is associated with Fox and KMYT-TV is associated with MyNetworkTV. [6]
  • The one major station in Johnstown and Altoona, PA is WJAC-TV, which is affiliated with NBC. [6]
  • WPXI is the station that broadcasts to Pittsburgh, PA. This station is operated by NBC. [6]
  • The station in El Paso, TX is KFOX-TV, operated by Fox [6]
  • Lastly, the station KIRO-TV in Seattle and Tacoma, WA is operated by CBS. [6]
Current Cox- Owned Television stations

Current Cox- Owned Television stations. Image courtesy of Cox Media Group – Wikipedia. [19]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financials:

The broadcast stations that Cox Media Group owns in each market brings a significant amount of revenue for the company. In 2010 the gross revenue that the stations brought in all together was 535.9 million dollars. [4]

The broadcast station that brought the highest amount of gross annual revenue in 2010 was the station in Atlanta, GA with 137.6 million, WSB. The least amount of revenue generated was WJAC in Johnstowns and Altoona, PA with 9.9 million. [4]

Unfortunately, in 2011 the gross revenue dropped to a lower rate of was 482.1 million. That means that the company went down 53.8 million dollars in just a year. [4] Although the broadcast television stations lost revenue in 2011, they still stayed on top as the branch in CMG that produced the most amount of revenue that year. [4]

When it comes to the specific stations that Cox Media Group owns, the station that made the most money in 2011 was WSB in Atlanta, Georgia with 131.5 million dollars. The lowest amount of money that a station made was 8.9 million, again at the WJAC station. [4]

Cox media Group comes out with their annual revenue at the end of each year and due to this, they have not settled upon a yearly revenue for 2012 as of right now. One can assume that due to the election all throughout the fall of 2012, CMG’S annual gross revenue assumably shot up from 2011’s annual revenue.

News:

CMG Purchasing Two Major Television Stations

In July of 2012, CMG was offered to purchase two of Providence Equity Partners, the parent company of Newport Television, television stations. The stations that they offered were WAWS-WTEV in Jacksonville, Florida and KOKI-KMYT Tulsa, Oklahoma. [7]

WAWS-WTEV Jacksonville, FL

Logo for WAWS-WTEV in Jacksonville, FL. Image courtesy of Fox 30 WAWS website [20]

KOKI KMYT Logo

Logo for KOKI- KMYT in Tulsa, OK. Image courtesy of Fox 23 KOKI website [21]

The Federal Communications Commission was forcing Newport to sell on of the two Jacksonville stations. This was because it was stated as a condition to the agency’s approval of Providence Equity’s buy of the twenty stations in 2008. [12] 

 But this ended up being a beneifical prospect for CMG. Buying WAWS-TV would be a major deal for CMG due to the fact that this Jacksonville station is a top rated Fox affiliates in the United States. [8]

 On December 3rd, 2012, Newport announced that the deal had been closed and that CMG officially owned these two stations. [9]

According to Cox Media Group, the reason for why they decided to purchase these two T.V. stations was to focus on larger markets to ensure more of a cross media collaboration as well as improve the impact in lesser markets. [10]

To make this work to the best of its ability, CMG decided to sell radio locations in Birmingham, Greenville, Hawaii, Louisville, Richmond, and southern Connecticut, as well as T.V. stations in four markets: El Paso, Johnstown, Reno and Steubenville. What this will do is help the company collaborate with other businesses while keeping its financial numbers the same. [10]

According to Holly Allen, Vice President and General Manager of KOKI-TV and KMYT-TV, she said, “Our team in Tulsa is thrilled to be joining a company that not only has deep historic roots in the news business, but also is continually looking toward the future and making valuable contributions in communities around the nation.” [11]

With the purchase of these new radio station, CMG is able to switch up their traditional business plans. Most of the stations that they operate are broadcast stations in smaller markets but the purchase of these two new stations from Newport Television, LLC will change this. They will be focused on the idea of changing up their portfolio and focusing on the larger markets that they now own.

Awards:

There have been CMG properties that have received the Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards. This honor is rewarded to those who illustrate the spirit and excellent enthusiasm that broadcaster Edward R. Murrow demonstrated for the the broadcast profession. The winners include: [13]

  • KIRO-TV Channel 7 in Seattle
  • WSB-TV Channel 2 in Atlanta
  • WPXI-TV Channel 11 in Pittsburgh
  • WHIO-TV Channel 7 in Dayton
  • [13]
   Contact Information:

Cox Media Group
6205 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd.
Atlanta, GA 30328

Phone: (678) 645-0000
Fax: (678) 645-5002

 Sources:

[1] – http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/ 

[2] – http://www.coxenterprises.com/about-cox/history.aspx#.ULp7ybTU7FI

[3] – http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/ourproperties/

[4]- http://adage.com/datacenter/mediatrees2012/#41

[5] – http://www.actionnewsjax.com/content/topstories/story/Cox-Media-Group-buys-WAWS-TV-operates-WTEV-TV/aKTBlROyNEaFh3-X5X196w.cspx

[6]  – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cox_Media_Group

[7] – http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/487442-Newport_Sells_22_Stations_to_Nexstar_Sinclair_Cox_for_1_Bil.php

[8] – http://www.actionnewsjax.com/content/topstories/story/Cox-Media-Group-buys-WAWS-TV-operates-WTEV-TV/aKTBlROyNEaFh3-X5X196w.cspx

[9] – http://www.newporttv.com/default.aspx

[10]– http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/cmg-press-releases/cox-media-group-purchases-new-tv-stations-jacksonv/nPy7J/

[11] – http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=166138

[12] – http://www.jaxdailyrecord.com/showstory.php?Story_id=537043

[13] – http://www.coxmediagroup.com/news/awards/

Images:

[14] – http://www.coxmediagroup.com

[15] – http://www.authentichistory.com/special/nationsforum/NF_24_The_World_War-James_Cox-COX.jpg

[16] – http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/ourleadership/doug_franklin/

[17]- http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/ourleadership/bill_hoffman/

[18] – http://www.coxmediagroup.com/about/ourleadership/neil_johnston/

[19] – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cox_Media_Group

[20] – http://www.fox30jax.com/default.aspx

[21] – http://www.fox23.com/default.aspx

The Aboriginal People’s Television Network: The Here and Now

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The Aboriginal People’s Television Network is a national television Network in Canada whose focus is telling the stories of the First Nation, Metis, and Inuit people of Canada. This national Aboriginal network, which was the first of it’s kind,  broadcasts a variety of programming that relates to the lives of Aboriginal Peoples. From dramas and cartoons to news and documentaries, APTN offers programming that relays the lifestyle of Aboriginal Peoples.(10)

History

In the years prior to APTN   programming with Indigenous content was broadcast on a few networks, but during the most unfavorable hours.  Furthermore, the Northern areas of Canada, which possess large indigenous populations, really lacked television content  and coverage that was relevant to their lives.

In 1983 the Northern Broadcasting Policy and Northern Native Broadcast Access program gave Indigenous people the opportunity to have their own transponder that would distribute unique programming all over Northern Canada. This resulted in the creation of Television Northern Canada (TVNC), a TV network that was owned and operated by 13 Aboriginal organizations. Realizing the need for nationwide Aboriginal programming, TVNC   submitted proposals to the Canadian Satellite Communications Corporations. Finally in 1999 APTN was launched, and within two years was viewed in over 8 million households across Canada via cable television, direct to home and wireless service. APTN is currently funded through subscription fees, contributions and advertising.(10)

Programming

Being that they are the only Indigenous network in Canada, APTN  must offer a large variety in the way of their content. Unlike like many other networks that have the freedom to focus on specialized programming, APTN has to offer a little of everything to everyone in the Indigenous community. Their programming varies from children’s shows and documentaries to racy  dramas, and live music concerts. APTN works to represent the enormous variety of Native communities all across Canada.(15)

APTN purchases its content from over 100 production companies all over Canada. APTN broadcasts programming with 56% offered in English, 16% in French and 28% in Aboriginal languages. A majority of the programming (75%)  is produced in Canada. The remainder of the programming comes from international sources, usually from film acquisitions.(3)

In order for a show to be considered for purchase, the producer must be an Aboriginal person which is defined to include:

a) First Nations, Métis or Inuit person who resides in Canada; or
b) An Aboriginal production company, which is defined to include:
ii) A sole proprietorship, a limited company, a co-operative, a partnership, or a not-for-profit organization in which Aboriginal persons have at least fifty one (51%) percent ownership (13)

Demographic:

Although APTN appeals to all age groups, it attempts to target the 18-34 year old group the most. This is the  fastest growing  and media savvy demographic in the Indigenous community. Thus, much of APTN’s content is geared to their interests.(13)

Popular Shows in 2012

Blackstone– An HBO-esqe program, this hard hitting drama won various awards at the 2011 Gemini awards (APTN). Known for it’s controversial content, strong language and nudity, Blackstone continues to be one of the trademark programs at APTN. Blackstone Season 2 (11)


Fish out of water-A documentary series that follows a host to various indigenous communities through the U.S and Canada to experience to compare and contrast different lifestyles (14)

Caution: May Contain Nuts– An original sketch comedy series. Nominated for the 2011 Gemini awards for best comedy series.(12)


 

Variety/Music

APTN features music from many artists in the Indigenous community. One program called First Tracks, asks users vote on their favorite up and coming artists in the Canada, and APTN produces music videos for the winners. The artists chosen in 2011 were: Cris Derksen, Joey Stylez, Beatrice Love, Desiree Dorion, Dylan Thomas and Saali. Their videos are currently in production.(16)

APTN also hosts and broadcasts live concerts and variety shows, the most popular being the annual concerts held on Canada’s National Aboriginal Day. On June 23rd APTN will host a National Aboriginal Day Live. The day will be marked by music and festivities with two major concert venues, one in Winnipeg and the other at the First Nations University in Regina. This is the 6th year they’ve held these concerts, and in 2012 are expecting an all Star line up, with some of the biggest names in Aboriginal music and television. The Winnipeg event will be Co-Hosted by APTN personalities Don Kelly,  (Fish out of Water); Candy Palmater, (The Candy Show); and Upload personality Chantelle. Co-hosts for the Regina event include Aboriginal DJ and actress Crystle Lightning and producer and actress Jennifer Podemski.(1)

APTN was also the only Canadian to broadcast the 2012 Arctic Games. The Arctic Games are a sports and cultural festival that incorporate both contemporary and Indigenous events like dog mushing, curling and snow shoeing. The festival also features many artists from aboriginal communities like Tutchone, Dene and Inuit. (16)

News

National

In 2011, APTN revamped the News portion of their programming, dedicating an entire hour a day of news broadcasting. The News covers stories all throughout  Canada, particularly those concerning Aboriginal peoples. (15)

APTN announced that beginning on May 7th, 2012 APTN’s award winning news reporter Cheryl McKenzie will be  be joining APTN news anchor Michael Hutchinson as host and anchor on APTN National News.(3)

APTN News Cheryl McKenzie

On January 23  APTN National News covered of the opening ceremony of the Crown – First Nations Gathering. It was the first meeting for Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the collective First Nation leadership that discussed the relationship between the First Nation community and the Federal government.(9)

International

APTN is a founding member of World Indigenous Television Broadcasters Network (WITBN), an organization dedicated to unifying aboriginal broadcasters world wide for the purpose of preserving Indigenous languages and cultures. Other members of WITBN include representatives from New Zealand, Australia, Ireland, Scotland, Norway and Hawaii. (2) APTN is in the works of creating  network with the other members of WITBN, where news is exchanged and broadcast internationally. (15)

Interactive Future

Digital Drum

Realizing  the need to change with the times, APTN has started  to venture away from traditional linear broadcast model and into the realm of interactive media. In 2012 APTN will launch their new multimedia platform known as Digital Drum. Already in it’s soft launch, Digital Drum is an online experience, where users will be able to meet and interact with others in various Indigenous communities. Digital drum will also provide a platform for users to upload and share some self generated content. (15)  Digital Drum site.

Although APTN is only funded for television programming, they plan on earmarking a portion of their budget to bring Digital Drum to fruition. (15)

 

Awards 2011/2012

Programming

The 2011 Gemini Awards

Best Actress in a Continuing Dramatic Role-Michelle Thrush (Blackstone)

Best Achievement in Main Title Design-Robb Thompson, Darren Bierman, Shelley Cornies and Steve Seeley (Blackstone)

Best Host of a Variety Show or Series– Adam Beach and Evan Adams (The 18th Annual National Aboriginal Achievement Awards)

Best Photography of Performing Arts Program or Series- Kelly Jones (The 18th Annual National Aboriginal Achievement Awards) (17)

2012 KIDSCREEN Awards

Best One‐Off, Special or TV Movie Award-Dark Thunder Productions (Wapos Bay: Long Goodbye) (7)

News

2012 World Indigenous Journalism Awards

World Indigenous Journalist Honor– Rob Smith (“Journey Home”)

World Indigenous Journalist Special Recognition-Jorge Barrera, Ken Jackson, Paul Barnsley and Mark Blackburn (“Water Exploitation – Bruce Carson”)(8)

Corporate Restructuring

On January 4, 2012 Vera Houle was appointed as APTN’s new Director of Community Relations. Houle will work as a liaison between the Network and stake holders. She will support strategies and initiatives that will benefit Aboriginal communities. (6)

On January 13, 2012, APTN announced that Monika Ille would be their new Director of programming.  Ille, a graduate of Université du Québec à Montréal has over 20 years in the broadcasting and film. She had once worked for the Société Radio‐Canada and then went on to work for The National Film Board (NFB).(4)

On March 8, 2012, Lisa Squire accepted the position of Director of Marketing. Squire’s focus will be the development of APTN’s showcasing of Aboriginal People and their stories.(5)

Senior Management

Jean LaRose -Chief Executive Officer

Sky Bridges -Chief Operating Officer

Wilf Blondé -(Acting) Chief Financial Officer

Vera Houle -Director of Community Relations

Monika Ille -Director of Programming

Wayne McKenzie -Director of Operations

Aimee Powell -Director of Sales & Business Development

Lisa Squire -Director of Marketing

John Stott -Director of Human Resources

Lea Todd -Director of Creative Services and Scheduling (16)

APTN Headquarters

WINNIPEG

339 Portage Ave.

Winnipeg, MB R3B 2C3

 

 

Sources:

(1)Aboriginal day live and celebration. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.aboriginaldaylive.com/2012/02/aboriginaldaylive/

(2)About witbn. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.witbn.org/index.php/about/witbn

(3)Announcing new host and producer for aptn national news. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/Media_Releases/media-releases-2012-04-23

(4)Aptn appoints director of programming. (2012, January 13). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/media-releases.php

(5)Aptn appoints lisa squire as new director of marketing. (2012, March 8). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/media-releases.php

(6)Aptn appoints vera houle as new director of community relations. (2012, January 04). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/media-releases.php

(7)Aptn congratulates 2012 kidscreen award winners aptn. (2012, February 12). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/media-releases.ph

(8)Aptn news and current affairs team receives canadian journalism award download pdf. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/Media_Releases/media-releases-2012-05-1

(9)Aptn national news to cover the crown – first nations gathering. (2012, January 17). Retrieved from http://crownfirstnationgathering.com/

(10)Baltruschat, D. (2004). Television and canada’s aboriginal communities. Canadian Journal of Communication, 29, 47-59

(11)Blackstone. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://aptn.ca/pages/blackstone/

(12)Caution:may contain nuts. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://aptn.ca/pages/cautionmaycontainnuts/

(13)Eligibility & rating criteria for development & licensing. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/pro

(14)Fish out of water. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://aptn.ca/pages/fishoutofwater/

(15)McKenzie, W. (2012, April 27). Interview by W Estrada-Goeman [Personal Interview]. Aptn’s wayne mckenzie.

(16)Recent media releases  (2012). Retrieved from http://www.aptn.ca/corporate/media-releases.php

(17)26th annual gemini awards culminate with star-studded broadcast gala . (2011, September 7). Retrieved from www.geminiawards.ca

 

 

 

 

NBC Universal (Broadcast Division)

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NBC Universal Logo

Click above image for link to NBC Universal Broadcast homepage. [1

About

NBC Universal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment company specializing in the production of cable and broadcast television, film, as well as  amusement parks around the country. [2]

Quick Facts

Broadcast Divisions [4]:

Key Executives [5]:

History

The company began back in 1926, when the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) established the Unites States’ first radio station. In 1921, NBC expanded to television, with experimental broadcasts. In the mid 1940s, the company expanded its network to four major cities on the Atlantic coast. Finally, in the 1950s the station moved into color broadcasts, and the Today Show broadcast as the first early-morning television show. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the company started making radical changes by pursuing a larger and more diverse range of channels. First, was the formation of two cable TV networks: CNBC and America’s Talking. Then, in 1996 NBC joined with Microsoft to create MSNBC to create an all-news cable television channel. Finally in 1998, NBC went worldwide after partnering with Dow Jones & Co. In 2002, NBC acquired the Spanish-language broadcast channel, Telemundo. Finally, in 2003, due to a financial crisis, Universal Studios’ parent company, Vivendi, sold 80% of its stake to GE (NBC’s parent company). GE merged the two companies, to make the current company we know today: NBC Universal. [3]

January 2012

To kick off the year, NBC Sports Group announced their partnership with Panasonic to broadcast the London 2012 Olympic games in 3D. This year’s Olympic Games will be the first ever broadcast in high definition 3D technology. [6]

Click image to Official site London 2012 Olympics [7

“NBC has a history of utilizing technological innovations to distribute the Olympics in new ways for viewers,” said Gary Zenkel, President, NBC Olympics. “We are proud to continue that tradition by partnering with Panasonic and Olympic Broadcasting Services to distribute the first 3D broadcast of the Games in the U.S. in partnership with our multichannel video programming distributors.” [6]

On January 23, NBC Sports Network announced a deal with the Breeders’ Cup for a multi-year broadcast agreement. The agreement includes the first ever primetime broadcast coverage of the Breeders’ Cup. NBC will present 9.5 hours of live coverage of the 2012 Breeders’ Cup happening in this upcoming November. The NBC Sports Group is the exclusive home to the most popular and prestigious horse racing events. 2011 was the first year that all three Triple Crown races appeared on the NBC network since 2005. [9]

In addition, NBC Universal announced the company’s involvement in Super Bowl XLVI. While multiple NBC channels featured segments about the Superbowl, the NBC Sports Network was the primary broadcaster, airing over eighteen hours of live coverage. [10]

On January 26, NBC News and NBC 5 Chicago announced a multi-million dollar commitment alongside Comcast to fund the new Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago, Illinois. The museum is expected to open later in 2012, and will serve as a tool to educate the visitors about the history of the TV and radio industries. Because of NBC’s strong financial commitment to the museum, the principle presentation area will be named the “Comcast NBCUniversal Center.”[11]

February 2012

On February 6, Superbowl XLVI was reported to be the most-watched show in U.S. television history with over one hundred ten million viewers. This game topped the last NBC broadcast Superbowl (2008) by 12%. Because of these high numbers, NBC Universal’s NBC Entertainment program “The Voice” delivered the highest ratings for an entertainment program in six years at 37.6 million viewers overall. [12] Watch Full Episode (2/5/2012) of “The Voice”. [12]

Manuel Martínez [21

On February 14, NBC announced that Manuel Martínez has been named the President and General Manager of NBC 6 Miami, after working at Telemundo 51 Miami, where he’s been a part of the NBC Universal family since 2007. [13]

March 2012

In similar news to Manuel Martínez’s promotion, Eric Lerner was named President and General Manager of NBC 10 Philadelphia / WCAU on March 8. Previously, Lerner served as Vice President and General Manager of KIRO-TV, the CBS affiliate in Seattle, for the past six years.

“I am thrilled to be joining the NBC 10 team in Philadelphia.  It is an exciting opportunity,” said Lerner.  “The commitment from the NBC Owned Station Group is extremely impressive, and I can’t wait to build on the success at WCAU.” [14]

Click to watch CNY Central’s report on “NBC News: Hiring Our Heros” [23

In an another collaborative project with Comcast, NBC Universal pledged to participate in the “Hiring Our Heros” initiative. Together, the two companies will hire 1,000 over the course of the next three years. NBC News began the project about a year ago in an effort to help veterans and military spouses find meaningful employment in the private sector. [15]

April 2012

In more NBC Sports Network News, the broadcast division announced its involvement in the broadcasting of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs. This is the first time in the 95-year history of the NHL, when every playoff game will be televised nationally. The games will be presented on the following NBC Universal channels: NBC, the NBC Sports Network, the NHL Network, and NBCUniversal’s business channel CNBC in primetime. In addition, NBCSports.com will also provide online-exclusive coverage of the playoffs, with contributions from Comcast SportsNet insiders. [16]

“One Small Act” iPhone App [26

During the week of April 15-22, NBC Universal showed its support for a healthy planet with their eco-themed content for all shows in the mass media company. NBC News joined the effort for a cleaner environment by doing constant reports on pressing environmental issues facing our world today. Through both on-air and online media outlets, NBC Universal streamed over one hundred hours of environment-friendly content. The company encouraged viewers to track their environment contributions through their new app, “One Small Act.” [17] [25]

On April 18, NBC Universal began promotions for the London 2012 Olympics, marking 100 days from the July 27 Opening Ceremony. On that Wednesday, all NBC Universal stations participated in a 30-second “roadblock.” During the 30 seconds, the company aired two different spots. One spot played the “30 Greatest Moments” of the Olympics over the years. The second spot was meant to generate the excitement of the games, as viewers watched citizens from nations all over come together to London to compete. [18]

Most recently, NBC made more changes back on the business side of the company. On April 25, veteran television business executive George Cheeks was named as Executive Vice President and Business Operations of NBC Entertainment and Universal Television. Cheeks will be responsible for overseeing Business Affairs, Music Services and Production Operations for Universal Television. [19]

Sources

  1. NBC Universal Logo <http://ajbeal.iweb.bsu.edu/080418_ap_nbc_universal.jpg>
  2. NBC Universal: About Us <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/about-us/>
  3. NBC Universal: History <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/about-us/history/>
  4. NBC Universal: Broadcast <http://www.nbcuni.com/broadcast>
  5. NBC Universal: Senior Corporate Executives 
  6. PANASONIC & NBC SPORTS GROUP PARTNER TO DISTRIBUTE LONDON 2012 OLYMPIC GAMES IN 3D IN THE U.S. <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/panasonic-nbc-sports-group-partner-to-distribute-london-2012-olympic-games-in-3d-in-the-u-s>
  7. Official Logo for London 2012 Olympics <http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/10/London_Olympics_2012_logo.svg/200px-London_Olympics_2012_logo.svg.png>
  8. Official Site London 2012: http://www.london2012.com/
  9. BREEDERS’ CUP AND NBC SPORTS GROUP SECURE MULTI-YEAR MEDIA RIGHTS AGREEMENT <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/breeders’-cup-and-nbc-sports-group-secure-multi-year-media-rights-agreement>
  10. NBCUNIVERSAL SURROUNDS SUPER BOWL XLVI <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/nbcuniversal-surrounds-super-bowl-xlvi>
  11. COMCAST, NBC NEWS AND NBC 5 CHICAGO ANNOUNCE $2.7 MILLION COMMITMENT TO MUSEUM OF BROADCAST COMMUNICATIONS <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/comcast-nbc-news-and-nbc-5-chicago-announce-2-7-million-commitment-to-museum-of-broadcast-communications>
  12. SUPER BOWL XLVI IS MOST-WATCHED SHOW IN U.S. TELEVISION HISTORY <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/super-bowl-xlvi-is-most-watched-show-in-u-s-television-history>
  13. NBC OWNED TELEVISION STATIONS NAMES MANUEL MARTÍNEZ PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER OF NBC 6 MIAMI / WTVJ <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/nbc-owned-television-stations-names-manuel-martinez-president-and-general-manager-of-nbc-6-miami-wtvj>
  14. NBC OWNED TELEVISION STATIONS NAMES ERIC LERNER PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER OF NBC 10 PHILADELPHIA / WCAU <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/nbc-owned-television-stations-names-eric-lerner-president-and-general-manager-of-nbc-10-philadelphia-wcau>
  15. COMCAST AND NBCUNIVERSAL TOGETHER PLEDGE TO HIRE 1,000 VETERANS AS PART OF “NBC NEWS: HIRING OUR HEROES” <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/comcast-and-nbcuniversal-together-pledge-to-hire-1000-veterans-as-part-of-“nbc-news-hiring-our-heroes”>
  16. EVERY GAME. EVERY NIGHT. BECAUSE IT’S THE CUP. <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/every-game-every-night-because-its-the-cup>
  17. GREEN IS ACROSS THE NETWORKS, AS ECO-THEMED CONTENT SPROUTS UP ACROSS NBCUNIVERSAL FOR “EARTH WEEK,” APRIL 15-22 <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/green-is-across-the-networks-as-eco-themed-content-sprouts-up-across-nbcuniversal-for-earth-week-april-15-22>
  18. NBCUNIVERSAL CELEBRATES 100-DAY COUNTDOWN TO LONDON GAMES WITH 20-CHANNEL PROMOTIONAL ‘ROADBLOCK’ <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/nbcuniversal-celebrates-100-day-countdown-to-london-games-with-20-channel-promotional-roadblock>
  19. NBC NAMES GEORGE CHEEKS AS EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS OPERATIONS, NBC ENTERTAINMENT AND UNIVERSAL TELEVISION <http://www.nbcuni.com/corporate/newsroom/nbc-names-george-cheeks-as-executive-vice-president-business-operations-nbc-entertainment-and-universal-television>
  20. “The Voice”: Full Episode 2/5/2012 <http://www.nbc.com/the-voice/video/blind-auditions-part-1/1383198>
  21. Manuel Martínez image <http://dm2hispanics.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Manuel-Mart%C3%ADnez.gif>
  22. “Hiring Our Heros” YouTube <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n1KvJMKOQRY>
  23. “Hiring Our Heros” Image <http://sdsawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/hiring-heroes.jpg>
  24. NBCSports.com link <http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/>
  25. “One Small Act” web app link <http://www.greenisuniversal.com/play/one-small-act/>
  26. “One Small Act” iPhone Image <http://greenisuniversal.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/one-small-act-iphone-158×300.png>