Los Angeles Times Pressmens 20 Year Club
Monday, March 31, 2008
Monday Morning News
Our Favorite and last tour guide at the Los Angeles Times, Darrell Kunitomi
- No More Changes Forecast - Karen Hunter
- Over 100 Staffers Leave Newsweek - Radar
- LAT Correction o' The Day - Franklin Avenue
- Collapse and Rebirth - Newspaper Death Watch
- Weinstein, Levin, Frank Rich Tell The Truth - Ken Reich
- More Job Cuts Across the Media Sphere - Media Bistro
- LA Times Buyout List Gets Longer and Longer - Kate Coe
- Los Angeles Times buyout list, spring '08 - Kevin Roderick
- How to increase your chance of finding a job - Angry Journalist
- Tribune Chief Innovation Officer Provides Comedy Gold - News Busters
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 9:33 AM 0 Comments
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Job Market 2009
When there is no control of our borders
Submitted by Nubia
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 9:23 AM 0 Comments
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Unofficial Departure List of Production Employees
This is the unofficial list of employees leaving the Los Angeles Times two production facilities, which will be updated as additional information arrives.
Los Angeles Times Olympic Production Facility
Marvin Crayon
Alfredo Eslava
Roy Gonzales
David Martinez
Los Angeles Times Orange County Production Facility
Philip Chandler
Timothy Dodd
Doug Howard
Mark Jacobs
Lawrence Lyon
Scott MacDonald
Arthur Mojica
Mark Snyder
Ralph Van Dyke
This is the unofficial list of employees leaving the Los Angeles Times two production facilities, which will be updated as additional information arrives.
Los Angeles Times Olympic Production Facility
Marvin Crayon
Alfredo Eslava
Roy Gonzales
David Martinez
Los Angeles Times Orange County Production Facility
Philip Chandler
Timothy Dodd
Doug Howard
Mark Jacobs
Lawrence Lyon
Scott MacDonald
Arthur Mojica
Mark Snyder
Ralph Van Dyke
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 8:42 AM 0 Comments
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Newspapers For Sale
With all the negative news regarding falling profits at newspapers the past few years, I’m left wondering why three interested suitors are vying to purchase the Tribune Company property Newsday? If and when the Los Angeles Times goes onto the chopping block, three different billionaires have made it clear they would like to purchase the newspaper.
Makes one wonder what the movers and shakers see, that we do not see, for the future of newspapers?
With all the negative news regarding falling profits at newspapers the past few years, I’m left wondering why three interested suitors are vying to purchase the Tribune Company property Newsday? If and when the Los Angeles Times goes onto the chopping block, three different billionaires have made it clear they would like to purchase the newspaper.
Makes one wonder what the movers and shakers see, that we do not see, for the future of newspapers?
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 8:23 AM 1 Comments
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Sunday, March 30, 2008
Hawthorne Videoactive Report
Los Angeles Times Uses Billboards To Lure Subscribers; NBC Learns That Online Ads Are Stickier Than Television Counterparts; DoubleClick Opens Up Network To Hi-Def Ads; Online Ad Types Can Be More Annoying Than Instructive.
Los Angeles Times Uses Billboards To Lure Subscribers; NBC Learns That Online Ads Are Stickier Than Television Counterparts; DoubleClick Opens Up Network To Hi-Def Ads; Online Ad Types Can Be More Annoying Than Instructive.
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 2:02 PM 0 Comments
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Weekend Media Links
The line refers to Dennis FitzSimons' payout when he stepped down as Tribune CEO
- CAPITALISM without bankruptcy, is like Christianity without hell - Economist
- NAA Reveals Biggest Ad Revenue Plunge in More Than 50 Years - E&P
- Chuck Philips Overlooked Some Pretty Obvious Red Flags - Patterico
- Sex, drugs and plagiarism at the San Bernardino Sun - Reporter G
- Readers React to the Tupac Shakur Story - Los Angeles Times
- Daily News' Zuckerman still trying to buy Newsday - Newsday
- Times reporter's note to the 'resident bully' - Kevin Roderick
- Who Was Expecting an 18% Downturn? - Follow the Media
- Zell Unloads on Newspaper Employees - BNet
- Finger Wagging at the LAT - Tina Dupuy
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 9:39 AM 1 Comments
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Los Angeles Times Writers Say Goodbye
Robert Welkos farewell:
Henry Weinstein's farewell:
Joel Sappell's farewell:
Robert Welkos farewell:
In recent years, the Los Angeles Times itself became the story as its owners,Complete letter here:
publishers, editors and reporters came and went, sometimes with dizzying speed.
It was out of this seeming chaos that the Welkos Wire thrived. It was an
opportunity for all of us to catch up on internal news and gossip and take note
of the comings and goings of our colleagues. In the end, it wasn't me that gave
it life, it was all of you, just like all of the journalists who ever worked
here over the decades whose reporting and writing gave readers a front-row seat
to history.
Henry Weinstein's farewell:
The Principal Owner has the temerity to tell great journalists in our WashingtonComplete letter here:
bureau that they are nothing but "overhead,'' not producing any revenue. As I
said, if journalists were not producing stories, be they from a ravaged Los
Angeles hospital, the Supreme Court in Washington, the flooded streets of New
Orleans, the war zones of Bosnia, El Salvador and Iraq, the famine-ravished
countries of Africa, the bright lights of Dodger Stadium or a dimly lit movie
screening room, there would be no Los Angeles Times to sell. I hope Mr. Zell
eventually understands that.
Joel Sappell's farewell:
Wow, 26 years sure moved fast. I can't begin to express how much I've
enjoyed sharing a career with all of you as we mastered some of the biggest
stories L.A. could throw at us—riots, earthquakes, O.J., fires and on and on.
The one constant amid the churn of stories has been the passion of the staff,
which has allowed this place to flourish even in the most difficult times, such
as now. It's been a privilege and inspiration to work alongside you.
Our new "Innovation Officer" recently used the origins of rock 'n roll
to explain his vision for The Times. No offense, Lee, but I'd like to think of
us more as a symphony, with each part, each note, as important as the next. And,
Mr. Zell, please don't confuse arrogance with a commitment to something grander
than the real estate in which we're housed or to the dollars in our ESOP. You
want people to "Talk to Sam" but not to "Talkback to Sam." Perhaps that's a
closer definition of arrogance.
So, with that off my chest (sort of), I'll say good-bye and good
luck to you all.
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 8:51 AM 0 Comments
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Friday, March 28, 2008
For the weekend: gardens, bugs & antimacassars
I will tell you why I smelled of salad dressing yesterday.
In January, I grew annoyed with the sound of blowers and having my topsoil all blown away. Though I tried to work with them, explained to them, the economics of their jobs demanded they mow and blow. It's part of a larger problem, being that for the most part, gardeners aren't trained. All bushes are clipped the same, and it's not unusual to see botched tree trimmings. So I let them go. Admittedly, after having such a magificent garden at my old house, when I moved here I couldn't get up the enthusiasm for more work outside. But now that I'm sans gardener, it's time to get with it and make it more than Home Depot dull. Now, Louie and I have been out there each day......
Read the rest at:
Get Lost With Easy-Writer
I will tell you why I smelled of salad dressing yesterday.
In January, I grew annoyed with the sound of blowers and having my topsoil all blown away. Though I tried to work with them, explained to them, the economics of their jobs demanded they mow and blow. It's part of a larger problem, being that for the most part, gardeners aren't trained. All bushes are clipped the same, and it's not unusual to see botched tree trimmings. So I let them go. Admittedly, after having such a magificent garden at my old house, when I moved here I couldn't get up the enthusiasm for more work outside. But now that I'm sans gardener, it's time to get with it and make it more than Home Depot dull. Now, Louie and I have been out there each day......
Read the rest at:
Get Lost With Easy-Writer
posted by Kanani |
¶ 12:37 PM 6 Comments
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Thursday, March 27, 2008
Thursday Morning Media News
Edward with David Markland
- Sam, the viagra man - Bill Boyarsky
- Newspaper for Sale? - James Brady
- Newspapers Aren't Dying - The Stress-Telegram
- L.A. Times Journo Joins "The Dark Side" - Mayrav Saar
- Register Star offers buyouts to employees - Register Star
- CNET lays off 120, 10 percent of U.S. workforce - Valleywag
- Is Yahoo The Right Fit for Newspapers? - Editor & Publisher
- Zev on planning and the Los Angeles Times - Kevin Roderick
- These are not the salad days of American newspapers - Bob Richter
- Metblogs is once again having an open call for authors - David Markland
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 10:18 AM 0 Comments
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The Los Angeles Film Race
From the computer of David Markland
Hey, friends...
I'm event producing a filmmaking competition called the LA Film Race. Below are details. I'd appreciate if you could forward to anyone who may be interested. Thanks! -DM
The Los Angeles Film Race is a 24 hour filmmaking competition being held the first weekend of May, followed a few nights later by all the films being screened at a local theatre. I'm event producing, which is a great excuse for not participating, but it also makes me ineligible for a ton of prizes.
Here's how it works: At 10pm, Friday, May 2nd, filmmaking teams will be sent a theme (ie, "a trade") along with another random requirement (ie, "high five"). The team then has 24 hours to plot, shoot, edit, and turn in a 4 minute short film that incorporates those elements. Films need to be dropped of at a Hollywood area location (TBD, likely someplace with alcohol and cookies) by 10pm Saturday, May 3rd to qualify.
The top films from Los Angeles will then go on to be judged against films in other cities competitions for prizes ranging from $2,500 cash, Avid software, and more.
Registration fee until April 10th is $95 - but use discount code FILMRACER for $10 off.
For more info and to register:
http://filmracing.com/Cities/losangeles.htm
--
David Markland
:: City Captain/Author, LA Metblogs (formerly Metroblogging LA)
:: Blogger, KNBC's California Faultline
:: Producer, The LA Film Race, May 2nd & 3rd, 2008
:: resume, etc.: www.davidmarkland.com
From the computer of David Markland
Hey, friends...
I'm event producing a filmmaking competition called the LA Film Race. Below are details. I'd appreciate if you could forward to anyone who may be interested. Thanks! -DM
The Los Angeles Film Race is a 24 hour filmmaking competition being held the first weekend of May, followed a few nights later by all the films being screened at a local theatre. I'm event producing, which is a great excuse for not participating, but it also makes me ineligible for a ton of prizes.
Here's how it works: At 10pm, Friday, May 2nd, filmmaking teams will be sent a theme (ie, "a trade") along with another random requirement (ie, "high five"). The team then has 24 hours to plot, shoot, edit, and turn in a 4 minute short film that incorporates those elements. Films need to be dropped of at a Hollywood area location (TBD, likely someplace with alcohol and cookies) by 10pm Saturday, May 3rd to qualify.
The top films from Los Angeles will then go on to be judged against films in other cities competitions for prizes ranging from $2,500 cash, Avid software, and more.
Registration fee until April 10th is $95 - but use discount code FILMRACER for $10 off.
For more info and to register:
http://filmracing.com/Cities/losangeles.htm
--
David Markland
:: City Captain/Author, LA Metblogs (formerly Metroblogging LA)
:: Blogger, KNBC's California Faultline
:: Producer, The LA Film Race, May 2nd & 3rd, 2008
:: resume, etc.: www.davidmarkland.com
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 9:46 AM 0 Comments
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In Memory of Firefighter Brent A. Lovrien
By clicking here, you can directly support the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen's Fund of the Los Angeles Firemen's Relief Association. To learn more, visit: LAFRA.ORG or call 1-800-244-3439
By clicking here, you can directly support the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen's Fund of the Los Angeles Firemen's Relief Association. To learn more, visit: LAFRA.ORG or call 1-800-244-3439
Widows, Orphans and Disabled Firemen's Fund - Brian Humphrey
Burst manhole covers kill L.A. firefighter - Los Angeles Times
One L.A. firefighter dead in manhole explosion - Daily News
Brent A. Lovrien, LAFD firefighter was 35 - Kevin Roderick
LAFD Firefighter killed in the Line of Duty - Red Spot
Explosion kills L.A. firefighter in Westchester - Veronique de Turenne
Firefighter Killed in Explosion Near LAX - LAist
Firefighter Dies In The Line of Duty - Julie Frey
Another Hero is Dead - Gigi Graciette
Photo Credit: Rich66 on Flickr
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 7:26 AM 1 Comments
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Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Los Angeles Firefighter Killed in the Line of Duty
It is with great sadness that the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department share word of one City of Los Angeles Firefighter dying today in the line of duty.
On Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at 1:57 PM Los Angeles Firefighters were summoned to investigate smoke in the 8800 block of South Sepulveda Boulevard in the Westchester area of Los Angeles - not far from Los Angeles International Aiport.
While Firefighters were performing their sworn duties, an explosion occurred, causing injury to two male Firefighters and one civilian.
One of the injured Firefighters later died at the Centinela Freeman Regional Medical Center, Marina Campus.
The other Firefighter and civilian are being treated at area hospitals.
As dictated by Fire Department policy, a formal and detailed multi-agency investigation is underway to determine the exact nature of the explosion, as well as the precise cause and manner of the Firefighters death.
The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department thank you for your kind words and sentiment at this time of overwhelming sorrow and immense loss.
The latest information about this incident, as well as details regarding memorial services will be offered via this blog, and can be accessed anytime via LAFD.ORG
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
It is with great sadness that the men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department share word of one City of Los Angeles Firefighter dying today in the line of duty.
On Wednesday, March 26, 2008 at 1:57 PM Los Angeles Firefighters were summoned to investigate smoke in the 8800 block of South Sepulveda Boulevard in the Westchester area of Los Angeles - not far from Los Angeles International Aiport.
While Firefighters were performing their sworn duties, an explosion occurred, causing injury to two male Firefighters and one civilian.
One of the injured Firefighters later died at the Centinela Freeman Regional Medical Center, Marina Campus.
The other Firefighter and civilian are being treated at area hospitals.
As dictated by Fire Department policy, a formal and detailed multi-agency investigation is underway to determine the exact nature of the explosion, as well as the precise cause and manner of the Firefighters death.
The men and women of the Los Angeles Fire Department thank you for your kind words and sentiment at this time of overwhelming sorrow and immense loss.
The latest information about this incident, as well as details regarding memorial services will be offered via this blog, and can be accessed anytime via LAFD.ORG
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 6:12 PM 0 Comments
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The latest from Uncle Sam Zell
From: Talk to Sam
Sent: Wed Mar 26 09:16:41 2008
Subject: IdeaBank
Partners,
I’m thrilled with the hundreds of ideas employees have sent me. It’s been great to see your creativity, and in many cases, the thoughtful approach you’ve taken to analyzing your suggestions.
As I’ve said repeatedly, the best ideas for this company will come from you, and we’ve seen a number of these innovations come to life in the past 60 days, including: a new morning show in Hartford, a free newspaper targeting young adults in Baltimore, a new national news section in Newport News, and spadia ads in Orlando and South Florida. We need to test a lot of ideas; we recognize that some won’t work. But, we’ll never find the ones that do work, unless we try them.
To open up this idea exchange across the company, we are launching an online IdeaBank, accessible via TribLink.
Going forward, I’d like you to direct your ideas to our IdeaBank, rather than sending them to talktoSam@tribune.com. This will enable others across the county to see them. I will still read and respond to all of the ideas that are submitted, and I still encourage you to e-mail me directly with comments and questions.
The IdeaBank has a crowd-sourcing element, so you can tag ideas you think are particularly good. You can also sort ideas by categories, and we’ll feature the top Revenue-Generating ideas, as determined by their popularity, on the front page of the site. We’re placing special emphasis on revenue-generating ideas because, as you know, that is our current focus. (One reminder: Ideas should cost significantly less than the revenue they produce.)
Most importantly, I want to convey that this is not some lighthearted initiative. I expect you to participate. Make deposits. Make withdrawals. Review the ideas to determine how you might adapt them to your business unit. And, managers, by reviewing and analyzing these ideas, you dramatically increase the probability of their viability.
So, be prolific. The future of our company is literally in your hands.
Sam
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
From: Talk to Sam
Sent: Wed Mar 26 09:16:41 2008
Subject: IdeaBank
Partners,
I’m thrilled with the hundreds of ideas employees have sent me. It’s been great to see your creativity, and in many cases, the thoughtful approach you’ve taken to analyzing your suggestions.
As I’ve said repeatedly, the best ideas for this company will come from you, and we’ve seen a number of these innovations come to life in the past 60 days, including: a new morning show in Hartford, a free newspaper targeting young adults in Baltimore, a new national news section in Newport News, and spadia ads in Orlando and South Florida. We need to test a lot of ideas; we recognize that some won’t work. But, we’ll never find the ones that do work, unless we try them.
To open up this idea exchange across the company, we are launching an online IdeaBank, accessible via TribLink.
Going forward, I’d like you to direct your ideas to our IdeaBank, rather than sending them to talktoSam@tribune.com. This will enable others across the county to see them. I will still read and respond to all of the ideas that are submitted, and I still encourage you to e-mail me directly with comments and questions.
The IdeaBank has a crowd-sourcing element, so you can tag ideas you think are particularly good. You can also sort ideas by categories, and we’ll feature the top Revenue-Generating ideas, as determined by their popularity, on the front page of the site. We’re placing special emphasis on revenue-generating ideas because, as you know, that is our current focus. (One reminder: Ideas should cost significantly less than the revenue they produce.)
Most importantly, I want to convey that this is not some lighthearted initiative. I expect you to participate. Make deposits. Make withdrawals. Review the ideas to determine how you might adapt them to your business unit. And, managers, by reviewing and analyzing these ideas, you dramatically increase the probability of their viability.
So, be prolific. The future of our company is literally in your hands.
Sam
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 3:11 PM 1 Comments
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Mid-Week News
Eva Jones and David Martinez
- It's That Darn Internet Again - Tina Dupuy
- Fitch To Tribune: Sell, Zell, Sell - Editor & Publisher
- Media Cos. Battle Web Portals on Ads - Associated Press
- Radio vet Jeff Prescott reacts to Abrams - Kevin Roderick
- Hillary Lies About Coming Under Fire In Bosnia - Ken Reich
- Tribune Co. Launches Political Magazine for Amazon’s Kindle - Folio
- 2008 America East Newspaper Op. & Tech. Conference - Meta Printer
- Strib: Revenue drop 'precipitous,' production costs 'unfavorable' - MinnPost
- Why are so Many News Companies in a Panic? - Online Journalism Review
- Price Quoted for Newsday Keeps Changing, Call it a Fire Sale - NY Observer
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 6:11 AM 0 Comments
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Tribune Employees May Need to Refile Taxes
Dear Tribune Employee:
As you know, you were cashed out of your Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) shares upon close of Tribune’s going-private transaction in Dec. 2007. IRS rules consider the sale of ESPP shares held less than two years to be a “disqualifying disposition”. This means the 15 percent discount you received when you purchased these shares is treated as ordinary income for tax purposes.
Unfortunately, Computershare made an error in its data that was included on your W-2 you received for filing your taxes. Your W-2 either does not include the disqualifying disposition amount, or it includes only a portion of the amount that should have been included in Box 1 (wages, tips and other compensation) on your W-2.
If you’ve already filed your taxes, Computershare will reimburse you for the additional amount you must pay to your tax preparer to amend your taxes. To receive a reimbursement, please mail a copy of your invoice from your tax preparer to:
Computershare
118 Fernwood Avenue
Edison, NJ 08837
Attn: Christine Triolo
If you have any questions, please call Computershare at 866-571-2091 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on any NYSE business day.
Please accept our sincere apologies for the inconvenience our inaccuracies have caused for you.
Sincerely,
Computershare Plan Managers
Dear Tribune Employee:
As you know, you were cashed out of your Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) shares upon close of Tribune’s going-private transaction in Dec. 2007. IRS rules consider the sale of ESPP shares held less than two years to be a “disqualifying disposition”. This means the 15 percent discount you received when you purchased these shares is treated as ordinary income for tax purposes.
Unfortunately, Computershare made an error in its data that was included on your W-2 you received for filing your taxes. Your W-2 either does not include the disqualifying disposition amount, or it includes only a portion of the amount that should have been included in Box 1 (wages, tips and other compensation) on your W-2.
If you’ve already filed your taxes, Computershare will reimburse you for the additional amount you must pay to your tax preparer to amend your taxes. To receive a reimbursement, please mail a copy of your invoice from your tax preparer to:
Computershare
118 Fernwood Avenue
Edison, NJ 08837
Attn: Christine Triolo
If you have any questions, please call Computershare at 866-571-2091 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on any NYSE business day.
Please accept our sincere apologies for the inconvenience our inaccuracies have caused for you.
Sincerely,
Computershare Plan Managers
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 12:15 AM 0 Comments
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Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Tribune Press Release
Tribune's KSWB-TV, San Diego, to Join Fox Network
Company Appoints Ray Schonbak Vice President and General Manager
Station’s Local News to Expand
CHICAGO Mar. 25, 2008 -- Tribune Broadcasting today announced that KSWB-TV in San Diego will join the Fox television network effective Aug. 1. The company also announced that veteran broadcasting executive Ray Schonbak has been named the station’s vice president and general manager.
"This is a huge development for our television group and makes it clear that the new Tribune is aggressive and willing to move quickly to upgrade our position in a market, especially when we can improve our financial results almost immediately," said Ed Wilson, Tribune Broadcasting’s president. "We’re not sitting around waiting for the advertising environment to improve, hoping things will get better on their own -- we’re taking action."
KSWB will immediately begin ramping up to air four hours of locally produced news daily, including a three-hour morning show.
Schonbak has more than 30 years of television experience and was most recently president of Emmis Television, overseeing the operation of 16 stations across the country in such markets as New Orleans, Orlando and Portland. Previously, he was instrumental in building the Fox-owned station group.
"This is like being handed the keys to a cool new car and told to go break the speed limit," said Schonbak. "The #1 television network, the chance to build a news department from the ground up, and on top of all that I get to live in a city that’s totally awesome -- 80 degrees, sunny all the time and right by the ocean. I’ll just wear a Speedo under my clothes and be ready to hit the beach at a moment’s notice."
"Fox is a proven winner, and Ray is the right guy to be the new GM," said Wilson. "He’s talented, innovative and has tremendous experience building Fox television stations. But he’s going to be working constantly, so he can forget the Speedo."
Tribune's KSWB-TV, San Diego, to Join Fox Network
Company Appoints Ray Schonbak Vice President and General Manager
Station’s Local News to Expand
CHICAGO Mar. 25, 2008 -- Tribune Broadcasting today announced that KSWB-TV in San Diego will join the Fox television network effective Aug. 1. The company also announced that veteran broadcasting executive Ray Schonbak has been named the station’s vice president and general manager.
"This is a huge development for our television group and makes it clear that the new Tribune is aggressive and willing to move quickly to upgrade our position in a market, especially when we can improve our financial results almost immediately," said Ed Wilson, Tribune Broadcasting’s president. "We’re not sitting around waiting for the advertising environment to improve, hoping things will get better on their own -- we’re taking action."
KSWB will immediately begin ramping up to air four hours of locally produced news daily, including a three-hour morning show.
Schonbak has more than 30 years of television experience and was most recently president of Emmis Television, overseeing the operation of 16 stations across the country in such markets as New Orleans, Orlando and Portland. Previously, he was instrumental in building the Fox-owned station group.
"This is like being handed the keys to a cool new car and told to go break the speed limit," said Schonbak. "The #1 television network, the chance to build a news department from the ground up, and on top of all that I get to live in a city that’s totally awesome -- 80 degrees, sunny all the time and right by the ocean. I’ll just wear a Speedo under my clothes and be ready to hit the beach at a moment’s notice."
"Fox is a proven winner, and Ray is the right guy to be the new GM," said Wilson. "He’s talented, innovative and has tremendous experience building Fox television stations. But he’s going to be working constantly, so he can forget the Speedo."
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 3:12 PM 0 Comments
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Tribune memo on switch to Fox in San Diego
From: Tribune Communications
Subject: Message from Ed Wilson/KSWB-TV To Join Fox
Tribune Broadcasting today is making the exciting announcement that effective August 1st, KSWB-TV, San Diego, will become an affiliate of the Fox television network — the nation’s #1 sourcee for broadcast entertainment. We’ll also announce the appointment of Ray Schonbak, the former president of Emmis Television, as vice president and general manager at the station. Ray’s one of the most successful television executives anywhere in the country. His Emmis stations were industry leaders in revenue growth, and before that, he helped build the Fox-owned stations division into a powerhouse.
For KSWB, this is a no-brainer. Fox is a proven winner. The switch will mean great prime-time programming with shows like “American Idol”, “The Simpsons” and “24”, designed to build an excellent lead-in to our late local news. KSWB will get back into the news game in a big way later this year, and will immediately begin ramping up to produce four hours of news every dayincluding a three hour morning show.
The affiliattion also brings KSWB America’s top sporting drawNFL footballevery weekend in the fall and winter, as well as the college football’s Bowl Championship Series, major league baseball and NASCAR. And all of this should mean increased sales and an immediate improvement in the bottom line in San Diego.
Most importantly, this is a huge development for our television group and for the company itself. It demonstrates our willingness to be aggressive, to make investments for the long term, and to flex our considerable muscle when necessary to get a deal done. The CW has been a great partner for KSWB and we’re working with the network to find it a new home in the market....
This is the new Tribune. Stay tuned — there’s a lot more ahead.
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
From: Tribune Communications
Subject: Message from Ed Wilson/KSWB-TV To Join Fox
Tribune Broadcasting today is making the exciting announcement that effective August 1st, KSWB-TV, San Diego, will become an affiliate of the Fox television network — the nation’s #1 sourcee for broadcast entertainment. We’ll also announce the appointment of Ray Schonbak, the former president of Emmis Television, as vice president and general manager at the station. Ray’s one of the most successful television executives anywhere in the country. His Emmis stations were industry leaders in revenue growth, and before that, he helped build the Fox-owned stations division into a powerhouse.
For KSWB, this is a no-brainer. Fox is a proven winner. The switch will mean great prime-time programming with shows like “American Idol”, “The Simpsons” and “24”, designed to build an excellent lead-in to our late local news. KSWB will get back into the news game in a big way later this year, and will immediately begin ramping up to produce four hours of news every dayincluding a three hour morning show.
The affiliattion also brings KSWB America’s top sporting drawNFL footballevery weekend in the fall and winter, as well as the college football’s Bowl Championship Series, major league baseball and NASCAR. And all of this should mean increased sales and an immediate improvement in the bottom line in San Diego.
Most importantly, this is a huge development for our television group and for the company itself. It demonstrates our willingness to be aggressive, to make investments for the long term, and to flex our considerable muscle when necessary to get a deal done. The CW has been a great partner for KSWB and we’re working with the network to find it a new home in the market....
This is the new Tribune. Stay tuned — there’s a lot more ahead.
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 11:35 AM 0 Comments
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Tuesday Morning Media News
Pressroom Roller Crew Members Manny, Jeff, and Rod
- Stealth journalism - Alan Mutter
- The tchotchkefication of The Times - Jeff Jarvis
- The Internet Killed the Newspaper - Tina Dupuy
- Rising Prices Hit Newsprint Publishers - Jim Jelter
- Would 'Newsday' Sale Get Regulators' OK? - Porfolio
- Analyst Slams Cablevision plan for Newsday - Newsday
- LAT's Krikorian to join public defender - Kevin Roderick
- Rally Lifted Our Spirts, But no Contract Yet - Stress-Telegram
- Envisioning a Newspaperless Democracy - Newspaper Death Watch
- At the MediaNews Newspapers Bad News Floats Upstream - Reporter G
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 7:44 AM 1 Comments
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Monday, March 24, 2008
Services for Julio Barajas
Viewing:
Thursday March 27, 2008
from 5:00p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Funeraria Del Angel
Mirabel Mortuary
4677 E. Gage Ave.
Bell, CA. 90201
Click here for MAP
Funeral Mass:
Friday March 28, 2008
9:00a.m.
St Xavier
4245 Acacia ave
Pico Rivera, CA. 90660
Click here for MAP
Viewing:
Thursday March 27, 2008from 5:00p.m. to 9:00p.m.
Funeraria Del Angel
Mirabel Mortuary
4677 E. Gage Ave.
Bell, CA. 90201
Click here for MAP
Funeral Mass:
Friday March 28, 2008
9:00a.m.
St Xavier
4245 Acacia ave
Pico Rivera, CA. 90660
Click here for MAP
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 10:38 PM 0 Comments
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posted by Kanani |
¶ 8:56 PM 0 Comments
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Sam Zell approves of Sun-Times ribbing
From: Talk to Sam
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2008 1:35 PM
Subject: Shocking Video
Partners,
I returned from out of the country this weekend to learn that one of our employees had entered a video in the Sun-Times contest designed to protest a name change of Wrigley Field.
Needless to say, I was shocked! Appalled! The video was a blatant disregard for Tribune Company policy. It demonstrated a glaring disrespect for your chairman and CEO. (I’m much better looking, clearly more agile, and I think whoever played me was singing off key.)
So, I immediately referred to the 11th commandment: Thou shalt not take oneself too seriously. And, then I shared the video with my family and friends.
Here’s the link if you didn’t catch it: http://www.chicagotribune.com/chi-suntimes-song-contest,0,1932877.htmlstory
It’s most definitely worth the watch, and it was a deft grab of the ball away from that other paper. What was their name again?
Sam
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
From: Talk to Sam
Sent: Monday, March 24, 2008 1:35 PM
Subject: Shocking Video
Partners,
I returned from out of the country this weekend to learn that one of our employees had entered a video in the Sun-Times contest designed to protest a name change of Wrigley Field.
Needless to say, I was shocked! Appalled! The video was a blatant disregard for Tribune Company policy. It demonstrated a glaring disrespect for your chairman and CEO. (I’m much better looking, clearly more agile, and I think whoever played me was singing off key.)
So, I immediately referred to the 11th commandment: Thou shalt not take oneself too seriously. And, then I shared the video with my family and friends.
Here’s the link if you didn’t catch it: http://www.chicagotribune.com/chi-suntimes-song-contest,0,1932877.htmlstory
It’s most definitely worth the watch, and it was a deft grab of the ball away from that other paper. What was their name again?
Sam
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 4:49 PM 0 Comments
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A Casual Dinner with Obama
You could join Barack Obama for a casual dinner for five.
In the next few days, four supporters will be selected for a new kind of fundraising dinner. If you make a donation in any amount before 11:59 pm EDT next Monday, March 31st, you could join Barack and three other supporters for an intimate dinner for five.
Get the kind of treatment other politicians reserve for special interests:
https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner
Thanks!
You could join Barack Obama for a casual dinner for five.
In the next few days, four supporters will be selected for a new kind of fundraising dinner. If you make a donation in any amount before 11:59 pm EDT next Monday, March 31st, you could join Barack and three other supporters for an intimate dinner for five.
Get the kind of treatment other politicians reserve for special interests:
https://donate.barackobama.com/dinner
Thanks!
posted by Nubia |
¶ 3:20 PM 0 Comments
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Tribune Appoints Chandler Bigelow CFO
CHICAGO Mar. 24, 2008 -- Tribune Company today announced the appointment of Chandler Bigelow as Chief Financial Officer, overseeing all corporate finance functions, including financial reporting, tax, audit and treasury. Effective immediately, Bigelow succeeds Don Grenesko, who is retiring.
Bigelow has been Tribune’s vice president/treasurer with responsibility for the company’s financing activities, cash management, short-term and retirement fund investments and risk-management programs since 2003. He began his Tribune career in 1998, and prior to his most recent position served as assistant treasurer, director/corporate finance and corporate finance manager.
Grenesko served as the company’s CFO for the past 17 years. He joined Tribune as treasury manager in 1980 and helped engineer the company’s initial stock offering in 1983. In 1985, Grenesko was named executive vice president/business operations for the Chicago Cubs, and from 1988 to 1991 he was the team’s president and CEO.
Grenesko and Bigelow were each instrumental in closing Tribune’s going-private transaction in December 2007.
CHICAGO Mar. 24, 2008 -- Tribune Company today announced the appointment of Chandler Bigelow as Chief Financial Officer, overseeing all corporate finance functions, including financial reporting, tax, audit and treasury. Effective immediately, Bigelow succeeds Don Grenesko, who is retiring.
Bigelow has been Tribune’s vice president/treasurer with responsibility for the company’s financing activities, cash management, short-term and retirement fund investments and risk-management programs since 2003. He began his Tribune career in 1998, and prior to his most recent position served as assistant treasurer, director/corporate finance and corporate finance manager.
Grenesko served as the company’s CFO for the past 17 years. He joined Tribune as treasury manager in 1980 and helped engineer the company’s initial stock offering in 1983. In 1985, Grenesko was named executive vice president/business operations for the Chicago Cubs, and from 1988 to 1991 he was the team’s president and CEO.
Grenesko and Bigelow were each instrumental in closing Tribune’s going-private transaction in December 2007.
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 3:04 PM 0 Comments
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Tribune Station Switches to Fox Tribe
KSWB in San Diego to Depart CW Clan
By Michele Greppi
Tribune Co.’s KSWB-TV in San Diego will shift its network affiliation to Fox at the end of August, dramatizing the willingness of new Tribune owner Sam Zell to depart from the approach of the company’s former management.
KSWB is affiliated with The CW and was a founding affiliate of its now-defunct predecessor, The WB.
The station will start the 2008-09 season carrying Fox’s popular NFL coverage (San Diego is the home of the Chargers), as well as a prime-time lineup fueled by such hits as “House,” “24” and “American Idol.”
The talks were spearheaded by Randy Michaels, who has headed Tribune Co.’s Internet and broadcast operations since December, according to Tribune Broadcasting President Ed Wilson, who was president of the Fox Television Network before joining Tribune in February.
Mr. Wilson said Tribune will add three to four hours of news per day to the lineup of KSWB, which currently simulcasts the local morning program produced by Tribune’s KTLA-TV in Los Angeles and broadcasts a late local newscast produced by NBC-owned KNSD-TV in San Diego.
“This is a very good move for us,” Mr. Wilson told TelevisionWeek.
As for what will happen to The CW affiliation in the market, John Maatta, chief operating officer of The CW issued a statement saying: “Tribune is a valued partner of The CW’s and we’re confident that our interests in San Diego will be fully protected.”
Mr. Wilson noted that Tribune still will have 12 CW affiliates, whose general managers recently were briefed on prime-time plans by The CW President Dawn Ostroff.
“We continue to be very loyal. We’re going to do what’s best for The CW,” Mr. Wilson said. “We are talking on a daily basis.”
Changes
Tribune stations already represented the second-largest group of Fox affiliates. The addition of San Diego will mean seven Tribune-owned stations within the Fox fold.
The station losing Fox affiliation is XETV-TV, which is based just across the Mexican border in Tijuana and was purchased by Grupo Televisa in 1996.
Jon Hookstratten, Fox network distribution exec VP, said the network’s gains in this affiliation switch start with the fact that instead of working with a station situated in another country, the network will be collaborating with a station whose transmitter is located in the middle of the San Diego market, the 27th largest TV market in the country.
“It’s more of a stable situation,” Mr. Hookstratten said. “We are looking forward to it as a great opportunity.”
McKinnon Broadcasting had been in talks with Fox Broadcasting about affiliation when Tribune reached out to Fox about making the switch.
According to sources familiar with the history of the negotiations, the subject first came up when the previous Tribune regime was grappling with a great deal of challenge and change. Last week brought the news that Tribune Co. had lost $79 million for the fourth quarter of 2007, its last as a publicly traded company, and ended the calendar year barely profitable.
There also was the announcement that Mr. Zell’s new management team was going to combine operations of its Miami TV station, CW affiliated WSFL-TV, and the Tribune-owned South Florida Sun-Sentinel newspaper.
KSWB in San Diego to Depart CW Clan
By Michele Greppi
Tribune Co.’s KSWB-TV in San Diego will shift its network affiliation to Fox at the end of August, dramatizing the willingness of new Tribune owner Sam Zell to depart from the approach of the company’s former management.
KSWB is affiliated with The CW and was a founding affiliate of its now-defunct predecessor, The WB.
The station will start the 2008-09 season carrying Fox’s popular NFL coverage (San Diego is the home of the Chargers), as well as a prime-time lineup fueled by such hits as “House,” “24” and “American Idol.”
The talks were spearheaded by Randy Michaels, who has headed Tribune Co.’s Internet and broadcast operations since December, according to Tribune Broadcasting President Ed Wilson, who was president of the Fox Television Network before joining Tribune in February.
Mr. Wilson said Tribune will add three to four hours of news per day to the lineup of KSWB, which currently simulcasts the local morning program produced by Tribune’s KTLA-TV in Los Angeles and broadcasts a late local newscast produced by NBC-owned KNSD-TV in San Diego.
“This is a very good move for us,” Mr. Wilson told TelevisionWeek.
As for what will happen to The CW affiliation in the market, John Maatta, chief operating officer of The CW issued a statement saying: “Tribune is a valued partner of The CW’s and we’re confident that our interests in San Diego will be fully protected.”
Mr. Wilson noted that Tribune still will have 12 CW affiliates, whose general managers recently were briefed on prime-time plans by The CW President Dawn Ostroff.
“We continue to be very loyal. We’re going to do what’s best for The CW,” Mr. Wilson said. “We are talking on a daily basis.”
Changes
Tribune stations already represented the second-largest group of Fox affiliates. The addition of San Diego will mean seven Tribune-owned stations within the Fox fold.
The station losing Fox affiliation is XETV-TV, which is based just across the Mexican border in Tijuana and was purchased by Grupo Televisa in 1996.
Jon Hookstratten, Fox network distribution exec VP, said the network’s gains in this affiliation switch start with the fact that instead of working with a station situated in another country, the network will be collaborating with a station whose transmitter is located in the middle of the San Diego market, the 27th largest TV market in the country.
“It’s more of a stable situation,” Mr. Hookstratten said. “We are looking forward to it as a great opportunity.”
McKinnon Broadcasting had been in talks with Fox Broadcasting about affiliation when Tribune reached out to Fox about making the switch.
According to sources familiar with the history of the negotiations, the subject first came up when the previous Tribune regime was grappling with a great deal of challenge and change. Last week brought the news that Tribune Co. had lost $79 million for the fourth quarter of 2007, its last as a publicly traded company, and ended the calendar year barely profitable.
There also was the announcement that Mr. Zell’s new management team was going to combine operations of its Miami TV station, CW affiliated WSFL-TV, and the Tribune-owned South Florida Sun-Sentinel newspaper.
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 3:00 PM 0 Comments
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The Passing of Julio Barajas
Easter Sunday was a somber day as word came my way from my brother Michael that his father, my stepfather Julio Barajas, had passed away Easter morning. Just the day before we had all gathered to celebrate Mike’s 39th birthday, which changed our festive mood into one of sadness and sorrow.
Julio was not your typical stepfather; he always greeted me with a smile, and was always happy to see anyone that crossed his path. He leaves behind three sons, seven to ten grandchildren, and three stepchildren.
Julio’s first career was a dangerous one of bull fighting, and after immigrating to the States landed a job for the Times Mirror Corporation as a pressman at the now stuttered Times Mirror Press on Boyle Street. In his spare time Julio coached several soccer teams in the East Los Angeles area. All he touched will miss him.
Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.
Julio was not your typical stepfather; he always greeted me with a smile, and was always happy to see anyone that crossed his path. He leaves behind three sons, seven to ten grandchildren, and three stepchildren.
Julio’s first career was a dangerous one of bull fighting, and after immigrating to the States landed a job for the Times Mirror Corporation as a pressman at the now stuttered Times Mirror Press on Boyle Street. In his spare time Julio coached several soccer teams in the East Los Angeles area. All he touched will miss him.
Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 10:01 AM 4 Comments
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Monday Morning News
The Blogging Pressman meets the Blogging Fireman, Brian Humphrey
- Bad news for Big Media - Fortune
- Lessons of Long Beach - Kevin Roderick
- Zell Enters Into Talks To Sell Newsday - Ken Reich
- Newspapers’ New Owners Turn Grim - New York Times
- Tribune owner hopes to revive embattled Times - Variety
- The Perilous Fall of the Press-Telegram - Los Angeles Times
- Photos from Beer & Brunch at Farmers Market - Sean Bonner
- The death and life of the American newspaper - The New Yorker
- Darryl Turner Tasered-To-Death for Shoplifting - Electronic Village
- Cubs in limbo as Tribune's Zell seeks home-run deals - WJBC Radio
- Star-News, LA Times hit hard in latest round of cuts - Pasadena Weekly
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 8:33 AM 1 Comments
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Sunday, March 23, 2008
Movie: Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day
Miss Pettigrew is for all of us who have been forced to take part in circumstances despite feelings we don't belong. In this comedy, Frances McDormand gives an understated and excellent performance as a misfit and much-fired nanny tossed onto the streets with nary a pence nor stitch. Pre WWII and desperate for both food and job, Miss Pettigrew makes a fateful decision to show up at the door of Delysia Lafosse to assume a role as a social secretary. This story of the mousy "vicar's daughter" and the kept-starlet who can't say no, is a delightful romp through a twenty four hour period where love and honesty are explored and discovered. Amy Adams is both hilarious and heart tugging as an aging ingenue. Shirley Henderson --in a departure from "Moaning Myrtle" gives a good show as a plotting and unscrupulous salon owner, and Ciarán Hinds as her older, wiser fiancé who designs corsets and bras, but knows the value of simpler things.
posted by Kanani |
¶ 10:25 PM 0 Comments
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Saturday, March 22, 2008
The dead don't come back to life -- with one exception
By DR. BILLY GRAHAM
DEAR DR. GRAHAM: Do you think they'll ever find Jesus' grave with His bones in it? I respect my Christian friends who say this can't happen because Jesus came back from the dead, but I'm studying to be a doctor, and I know that once someone is dead, nothing is going to bring them back to life. -- Z.J.
DEAR Z.J.: It might surprise you to discover that one of the Gospels that tells us about the resurrection of Jesus from the dead was written by Luke -- who was a medical doctor.
If anyone knew from personal experience that dead people didn't come back to life, it was Luke. And yet he was absolutely convinced the words of Peter he later recorded were true: "God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact" (Acts 2:32). In fact, the Bible says hundreds saw Jesus after His resurrection, including more than 500 at one time (see 1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Years later, those witnesses were still bearing testimony to the reality of Jesus' resurrection.
Not only that, but they were willing to die for their belief. People don't willingly die for what they know is a lie -- but they were, because they knew beyond doubt that God had raised Jesus from the dead. They knew too that His resurrection proved death and Satan had been conquered, and eternal life is available to all who put their faith and trust in Christ.
This Easter I invite you to take a new path in life -- Christ's path. He alone gives us hope -- hope for God's presence now, and hope for life beyond the grave. No, they'll never find Jesus' bones, because God raised Him from the dead, and because of that "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul" (Hebrews 6:19).
HAPPY EASTER!!!!!!
Contact the Rev. Billy Graham c/o Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201, phone 877-247-2426, or see the Web site billygraham.org.
DEAR DR. GRAHAM: Do you think they'll ever find Jesus' grave with His bones in it? I respect my Christian friends who say this can't happen because Jesus came back from the dead, but I'm studying to be a doctor, and I know that once someone is dead, nothing is going to bring them back to life. -- Z.J.
DEAR Z.J.: It might surprise you to discover that one of the Gospels that tells us about the resurrection of Jesus from the dead was written by Luke -- who was a medical doctor.
If anyone knew from personal experience that dead people didn't come back to life, it was Luke. And yet he was absolutely convinced the words of Peter he later recorded were true: "God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact" (Acts 2:32). In fact, the Bible says hundreds saw Jesus after His resurrection, including more than 500 at one time (see 1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Years later, those witnesses were still bearing testimony to the reality of Jesus' resurrection.
Not only that, but they were willing to die for their belief. People don't willingly die for what they know is a lie -- but they were, because they knew beyond doubt that God had raised Jesus from the dead. They knew too that His resurrection proved death and Satan had been conquered, and eternal life is available to all who put their faith and trust in Christ.
This Easter I invite you to take a new path in life -- Christ's path. He alone gives us hope -- hope for God's presence now, and hope for life beyond the grave. No, they'll never find Jesus' bones, because God raised Him from the dead, and because of that "We have this hope as an anchor for the soul" (Hebrews 6:19).
HAPPY EASTER!!!!!!
Contact the Rev. Billy Graham c/o Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201, phone 877-247-2426, or see the Web site billygraham.org.
posted by Wolf |
¶ 7:18 AM 0 Comments
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Friday, March 21, 2008
End of the Week News
Fred Kirby as he appeared in 1992
- Are Job Cuts Signaling The End For America's Newspapers? - CNN Money
- Sun-Times is also losing readers, advertisers, and money - Business Week
- Alan Miller Leaving LAT For Much, Much Better Things - Mayrav Saar
- In a newspaper war, we must mind our p's and q's - Chicago Tribune
- Tribune Co. Goes Private Not a Moment Too Soon - Paul Gillin
- New York Moguls in Talks to Buy Newsday - New York Times
- The Wall Street Journal's Web site is already free - Machinist
- LAT blogger caught in Mark Cuban's net - Kevin Roderick
- Questions Linger About Sentinel, WSFL - The Daily Pulp
- Murdoch may buy Newsday - Mark Lacter
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 8:41 AM 0 Comments
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Thursday, March 20, 2008
Sam Zell to Partners (Tribune Employees)
Dear Partner,
Today we filed our 10-K with the SEC, and released fourth quarter and full year financial information for 2007. I'm sure it comes as no surprise to you that our results last year weren't good. Due to lower revenues, higher interest expense and some significant special charges, we reported a loss from continuing operations of $78 million in the fourth quarter. Our income from continuing operations for the full year was $55 million, which was a significant decline from 2006.
Unfortunately, this downward trend has continued into 2008. For the first two months of this year, publishing revenue is off more than we expected. While broadcasting is up over last year, it is not enough to offset the decline in publishing.
I have been trying to instill a sense of urgency among you all. I have been trying to get your attention, so that you recognize that today, right now, we are determining the outcome of this company's future. When I tell you to take the initiative, to take steps to make Tribune more competitive - that means take action! Don't wait for someone else to do it. Don't wait for someone to tell you exactly what to do. Create your own idea, figure out how we can weigh its risk vs. reward, and, if it makes sense, execute. Get together with your colleagues, and fight to improve our performance. If we succeed it will be because of heroes in the field who lead a grassroots sea change.
Now, let's focus on the future.
We've begun to build meaningful momentum so far in 2008. We've installed a new management team, initiated sweeping cultural change, taken significant steps to eliminate bureaucracy and to decentralize decision-making, and, I believe, we have improved morale across the company. We've also begun to infuse Tribune with more creative thinking than at any time in its history. On the operations side, we've shaken up our approach to ad sales across markets, and our newspapers, television stations and websites are embarking on an unprecedented level of cooperation.
Finally, as partners, I want you to know that the 10-K has information about the current value of the 56.5 million shares held by the ESOP. The total value of the shares at December 31, 2007, as determined by the ESOP trustee (after consulting with an independent appraiser) was $593 million or $10.50 per share. Remember that the value of these shares will fluctuate on an annual basis depending upon our financial results and capital structure. As we've explained previously, the first allocation of ESOP shares into individual employee accounts will take place in early 2009, but I think it's important that you know their current value. You may have some questions about the ESOP and the valuation of its shares. Here's a link to several new Q&As on this topic: http://triblink.trb/intranet/site/10k
We have an enormous challenge ahead of us. But, we're headed in the right direction.
The future is what we make of it together. Let's go for greatness.
Sam
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
Dear Partner,
Today we filed our 10-K with the SEC, and released fourth quarter and full year financial information for 2007. I'm sure it comes as no surprise to you that our results last year weren't good. Due to lower revenues, higher interest expense and some significant special charges, we reported a loss from continuing operations of $78 million in the fourth quarter. Our income from continuing operations for the full year was $55 million, which was a significant decline from 2006.
Unfortunately, this downward trend has continued into 2008. For the first two months of this year, publishing revenue is off more than we expected. While broadcasting is up over last year, it is not enough to offset the decline in publishing.
I have been trying to instill a sense of urgency among you all. I have been trying to get your attention, so that you recognize that today, right now, we are determining the outcome of this company's future. When I tell you to take the initiative, to take steps to make Tribune more competitive - that means take action! Don't wait for someone else to do it. Don't wait for someone to tell you exactly what to do. Create your own idea, figure out how we can weigh its risk vs. reward, and, if it makes sense, execute. Get together with your colleagues, and fight to improve our performance. If we succeed it will be because of heroes in the field who lead a grassroots sea change.
Now, let's focus on the future.
We've begun to build meaningful momentum so far in 2008. We've installed a new management team, initiated sweeping cultural change, taken significant steps to eliminate bureaucracy and to decentralize decision-making, and, I believe, we have improved morale across the company. We've also begun to infuse Tribune with more creative thinking than at any time in its history. On the operations side, we've shaken up our approach to ad sales across markets, and our newspapers, television stations and websites are embarking on an unprecedented level of cooperation.
Finally, as partners, I want you to know that the 10-K has information about the current value of the 56.5 million shares held by the ESOP. The total value of the shares at December 31, 2007, as determined by the ESOP trustee (after consulting with an independent appraiser) was $593 million or $10.50 per share. Remember that the value of these shares will fluctuate on an annual basis depending upon our financial results and capital structure. As we've explained previously, the first allocation of ESOP shares into individual employee accounts will take place in early 2009, but I think it's important that you know their current value. You may have some questions about the ESOP and the valuation of its shares. Here's a link to several new Q&As on this topic: http://triblink.trb/intranet/site/10k
We have an enormous challenge ahead of us. But, we're headed in the right direction.
The future is what we make of it together. Let's go for greatness.
Sam
SOURCE: Kevin Roderick
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 2:30 PM 3 Comments
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Tribune Profits Spent on Golden Parachutes
Tribune Reports 2007 Fourth Quarter and Full Year Results
CHICAGO Mar. 20, 2008 -- Tribune Company today reported a loss from continuing operations of $78 million for the fourth quarter of 2007 compared with income from continuing operations of $233 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. For the full year 2007, Tribune reported income from continuing operations of $55 million compared with $661 million in 2006.
"Despite the continued difficult operating environment and weakness in print revenue, we see significant opportunity within Tribune Company," said Sam Zell, Chairman and CEO. "In our first 75 days, we've made a series of key leadership changes, have launched a number of programs and projects to drive new revenue, and have initiated a fundamental shift in culture. In addition, we have begun a strategic review of certain Tribune assets to determine whether capital can be more effectively redeployed into our core operations or toward reducing our outstanding leverage."
The declines in both the fourth quarter and full year 2007 operating results were largely due to lower revenues, higher interest expense and the net effect of the items described below.
Fourth quarter 2007 and 2006 results from continuing operations included the following:
A pretax non-cash impairment charge of $130 million ($79 million after taxes) in the 2007 quarter to write-down the Company’s masthead intangible assets to fair value.
A pretax charge of $64 million ($42 million after taxes) in the 2007 quarter for accelerated stock-based compensation expense and certain one-time compensation payments resulting from the completion of the Company’s going-private transaction.
A pretax charge of $23 million ($16 million after taxes) for severance and related charges in the 2007 quarter compared with a pretax charge of $6 million ($4 million after taxes) in the 2006 quarter.
A pretax charge of $16 million ($10 million after taxes) in the 2007 quarter related to the Company’s new management equity incentive plan.
A pretax charge of $6 million ($4 million after taxes) in the 2007 quarter for the write-down of Tribune Entertainment program assets.
A pretax charge of $3 million ($2 million after taxes) in the 2007 quarter to increase the accrual for anticipated advertiser claims at Newsday.
A pretax charge of $4 million ($2 million after taxes) in the 2006 quarter for the disposition of a press related to the shutdown of the Los Angeles Times San Fernando Valley printing facility.
A pretax gain of $7 million ($4 million after taxes) in the 2006 quarter related to the sale of the corporate airplane.
An after-tax non-operating gain of $11 million in 2007 compared with an after-tax non-operating gain of $69 million in 2006.
Full report at Tribune Company
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 2:15 PM 0 Comments
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Tribune takes the Sun Times' prize
The Chicago Tribune has won the Sun Times' Sam Zell Wrigley Field naming rights contest.
The Chicago Tribune has won the Sun Times' Sam Zell Wrigley Field naming rights contest.
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 10:17 AM 0 Comments
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Thursday Morning Links
Former Pressroom Supervisors Billy Deuel and Emmett Jamie
- Note to Zell: Swear More - Tina Dupuy
- Blogs vs. Newspapers - Darleene Powells
- Tribune takes the Sun-Times' prize - Chicago Tribune
- Yet No Cure - Only Pancakes, Prizes and You - Brian Humphrey
- Rising Prices Hit Newsprint Publishers - The Wall Street Journal
- Luxury SpaFinder Folds Print Pub, Transitions Online - Fishbowl NY
- Bay Area News Group asks staff to devise a 'NewPaper' - SF Weekly
- Knight Foundation Gives $25 Million to Newseum - Washington Post
- Three Big Publishers Tell Same Sad Story - Newspaper Death Watch
- Despite the Cuts, we're still dedicated to our community - Stress-Telegram
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 9:04 AM 0 Comments
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Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Former Colleague Needs Our Help
I received a disturbing call this afternoon regarding the poor health of a former colleague in the pressroom. According to Misty Griffin, Orange County Pressroom supervisor, our friend and former presswomen Lauren Turner is suffering from Lupus. This landed Lauren in the hospital for many weeks, unable to earn a living, Lauren had to vacate her home and place all her belongings into storage. With no income at the moment I’m hoping Lauren’s former colleagues, and even people that just want to help someone, will make a donation to help her get back on her feet.
Lauren would love hearing from her former colleagues at the Los Angeles Times, drop her a message at pillowjockey@yahoo.com
Donations can be sent to:
Lauren Turner
1480 W. 46th Street
Los Angeles, CA. 90062
I received a disturbing call this afternoon regarding the poor health of a former colleague in the pressroom. According to Misty Griffin, Orange County Pressroom supervisor, our friend and former presswomen Lauren Turner is suffering from Lupus. This landed Lauren in the hospital for many weeks, unable to earn a living, Lauren had to vacate her home and place all her belongings into storage. With no income at the moment I’m hoping Lauren’s former colleagues, and even people that just want to help someone, will make a donation to help her get back on her feet.
Lauren would love hearing from her former colleagues at the Los Angeles Times, drop her a message at pillowjockey@yahoo.com
Donations can be sent to:
Lauren Turner
1480 W. 46th Street
Los Angeles, CA. 90062
posted by Ed Padgett |
¶ 11:18 PM 0 Comments
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Jack Klunder Memo
Over the past weeks, I have been spending a great deal of time talking with the newspaper advertising sales leadership. These conversations have been very helpful to me and have confirmed that we have a very dedicated and talented sales team.
However, it has also become clear to me that in order to improve our revenue performance, we need to manage advertising’s sales operations in a much more disciplined manner. To address this need, we are organizing a new administrative group in the advertising department. This administrative group will be responsible for working with the advertising sales leadership team to implement effective processes for managing:
·Revenue planning, including reporting, goal setting and tracking
·New product development and implementation
·Sales strategy development, including pricing and product packaging
·Sales performance, including compensation/incentive programs, standards and metrics and accountability
·Coordination of sales training and recruitment with Human Resources
I am pleased to announce that Kim McCleary La France has been named to oversee this new group as Vice President Sales Operations and Planning. Kim will be strongly supported by Michele Manzo-Lembo and Ralph Muniz. As a result of this move, Marian Shima, Director of Public Affairs will take over the Public Affairs department and staff, reporting to Gwen Murakami.
Michele Manzo-Lembo has been named Director of Sales Strategy
Over the past weeks, I have been spending a great deal of time talking with the newspaper advertising sales leadership. These conversations have been very helpful to me and have confirmed that we have a very dedicated and talented sales team.
However, it has also become clear to me that in order to improve our revenue performance, we need to manage advertising’s sales operations in a much more disciplined manner. To address this need, we are organizing a new administrative group in the advertising department. This administrative group will be responsible for working with the advertising sales leadership team to implement effective processes for managing:
·Revenue planning, including reporting, goal setting and tracking
·New product development and implementation
·Sales strategy development, including pricing and product packaging
·Sales performance, including compensation/incentive programs, standards and metrics and accountability
·Coordination of sales training and recruitment with Human Resources
I am pleased to announce that Kim McCleary La France has been named to oversee this new group as Vice President Sales Operations and Planning. Kim will be strongly supported by Michele Manzo-Lembo and Ralph Muniz. As a result of this move, Marian Shima, Director of Public Affairs will take over the Public Affairs department and staff, reporting to Gwen Murakami.
Michele Manzo-Lembo has been named Director of Sales Strategy