Here's our update of what's happening around the WKYC Digital Broadcast Center, on NBC and around the television industry:
Inuguration Coverage on WKYC and NBC
WKYC will have complete Inauguration coverage of President Elect Barack Obama on Tuesday, January 20th. Our coverage will begin with Channel 3 News Today at 5 a.m. with the latest news on preparations in Washington D.C. At 7 a.m., the "Today Show" will bring you 3 1/2 hours of live coverage as we inch closer to the big moment. NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams will take over at 10:30 a.m. and anchor coverage for the next 5 1/2 hours featuring commentary by "Meet the Press" host David Gregory and NBC Political Director & White House Correspondent Chuck Todd. We'll then have complete wrap up coverage on Channel 3 News at 6 & 11 PM following a special edition of NBC Nightly News beginning at 6:30 p.m.
WKYC.com Presents Complete Inauguration Coverage
On-line, WKYC.com will provide extensive coverage of the inauguration as well with the latest news and video.
Get Well Wishes to "Deal or No Deal" & "Howie Do It" Host Howie Mandel
We have learned that Howie Mandel, host of NBC's hit show "Deal or No Deal" has been released for the hospital. According to the Associated Press on Tuesday, a publicist for Howie Mandel says he's out of the hospital and plans to return to work Wednesday. Mandel was in Toronto taping his new show "Howie Do It!" when he was taken to the hospital for an irregular heartbeat Monday, said Lewis Kay, publicist for the 53-year-old comedian and game show host.
President Bush Requests On-Air on Thursday to Say "So Long"
The White House has made a request of the major networks: NBC, CBS, FOX & ABC for 10 to 15 minutes of prime time coverage on Thursday for the President to give a fond farewell to the nation he has governed for the last 8 long years. Some of the networks were wondering whether the address was newsworthy, but will probably give Bush what he wants. No times have been announced.
50/50 Chance DTV Date Will Change
Broadcasting & Cable is reporting today that FCC Chairman Kevin Martin says there is now a 50/50 chance that the digital deadline may move from February 17th. The main hold up is not broadcasters, but the fact that the government funds to help consumers buy analog to digital converter boxes. Martin says that there would be significant costs of moving the date, including contracts the FCC has with call centers and advertising, but added that the major cost was what had been invested in telling people about the hard date.
