ON THE BIRD: CNN/SI SIGNS DEAL WITH PRIMESTAR

     CNN/SI, the fledgling sports network from CNN and Sports
Illustrated, has signed a deal with Primestar, according to
Charles Haddad of the ATLANTA CONSTITUTION.  CNN/SI will be
offered in the basic programming package to those DBS
subscribers.  CNN Senior VP Jim Walton called the agreement the
"first of many distribution agreements" for the network.  Haddad
notes the fact that CNN/SI's first distribution agreements are
with satellite companies "significant" as it confirms that
"launching new channels is hard for all programmers, including
mighty Turner Broadcasting."  Satellite companies represent only
3.3 million of all TV households, which number more than 90
million.  CNN/SI will be included in Primestar's least expensive
package, likely $32.99 a month.  CNN/SI will also be carried by
C-Band satellite systems representing 1 million customers
(ATLANTA CONSTITUTION, 8/20).