Media Notes
In S.F., Victoria Colliver reports CBS Corp. yesterday completed its $1.8B purchase of S.F.-based Cnet Networks Inc. in a deal that "makes CBS one of the top 10 largest Web properties." CBS has merged Cnet and existing Internet operations into a "newly expanded CBS Interactive division" led by CBS Interactive CEO Quincy Smith. Cnet CEO Neil Ashe was named President of the division, which will have HQs in S.F. Cnet is expected to "help CBS improve online advertising sales." CBS indicated that CBS Interactive after the acquisition becomes the "No. 1 online technology network led by Cnet.com and the No. 2 entertainment and sports online network" among men 18-34 (S.F. CHRONICLE, 7/1).
THIS IS OUR COUNTRY: In Toronto, Joe Warmington reports the CFL this week has released a video titled, "This Is Our League," via Bensimon Byrne, Toronto. The video, which is narrated by actor Chris Potter and features the Neverending White Lights' song "Always," is a "brilliant and emotional history lesson on the [CFL] and should make any Canadian swell up with pride." CFL Commissioner Mark Cohon sees the video "more as a 'celebration of our traditions' and a marketing approach which was thought of even before the NFL decided to play" the Bills Toronto Series (TORONTO SUN, 7/1).
NEW ERA: In Detroit, Angelique Chengelis reports "Michigan Replay," the Univ. of Michigan football coach's show that "reviewed the previous game and looked ahead, will no longer be on the air Sunday mornings." Sources indicated that new Michigan coach Rich Rodriguez this fall will have a preview show that will be "produced in-house and offer fewer highlights from previous games and focus more on players." It is unclear when and where the show will air, but its "most likely destination is FSN Detroit, perhaps on Thursdays, and the Big Ten Network" (DETROIT NEWS, 7/1).
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