In N.Y., Keith Kelly cites sources as saying that Time Inc. is "indeed mulling an SI frequency reduction," but the total annual output "would be closer to 30 issues" instead of the previously reported number of 24. Meanwhile, SI is "looking to diversify its base and recently announced plans to introduce a line of bathing suits." The company has "teamed up" with California-based RAJ Swim in the premium apparel space, and models in the next February swimsuit edition are "expected to showcase some of the swimsuits" (N.Y. POST, 7/19).
VIEWING FOR ALL SEASONS? In Salt Lake City, Scott Pierce notes NBC's new Olympic Channel will show "various competitions" at qualifying events leading up to future Games, but wonders "how interested" audiences will be. Pierce: "How many of us would watch that U.S.-Croatia water polo match three years out from the Tokyo Games?" Pierce wonders if the Olympic Channel has a "realistic goal." Pierce: "Only time will tell." But the channel "won't hurt archery, badminton and water polo." Pierce: "Maybe it will help" (SALT LAKE TRIBUNE, 7/19).
SCRIBE SHUFFLE: East Bay Times columnist Marcus Thompson will be joining Tim Kawakami at The Athletic's new Bay Area publication (TWITTER.com, 7/18)....SI's Pete Thamel announced he is leaving the company to cover college athletics for Yahoo Sports (TWITTER.com, 7/18).
