MIAMI, FL--(Marketwire - April 29, 2010) - NewsProNet Video, a leading provider of original syndicated news services for local broadcasters and online news destinations, today announced that television syndication pioneer Rick Ray has joined the company's advisory board. The board provides advice and guidance to NewsProNet senior management on the company's strategic direction and product offering, with a particular focus on the multi-platform distribution of syndicated news content.
Mr. Ray began his career in local television and went on to found Raycom Sports, one of the pioneers in the expansion of college sports beyond local markets. Today Raycom Sports owns the television rights to Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Basketball and is the regional television syndicator of ACC Football, among many other offerings. In addition, Mr. Ray founded Raycom Media, which owns and operates television stations in 18 states and is one of the nation's largest broadcasters.
"Over the years we've seen a significant increase in revenue flowing from local and regional sports programming and local news. And during the last ten years we've seen the role that the Web has played in reaching viewers outside of those local and regional markets," said Mr. Ray. "There is a demand for compelling online content that is almost insatiable, which has created a significant growth opportunity for NewsProNet and local television and online outlets."
Since retiring from Raycom Sports, Mr. Ray has continued to develop media properties, including the QVC Network's popular "For Race Fans Only" Friday Night NASCAR program, a crime TV series, and a series of TV specials involving major universities.
"With a track record spanning more than two decades, Rick Ray is one of the country's most successful and innovative media entrepreneurs," said Bob Rodriguez, Chairman, NewsProNet. "And we're thrilled to have him on our advisory board. His broad media industry knowledge and operational experience as well as his relationships throughout the industry will help us extend our position as a leader in the creation and distribution of short-form news content across multiple platforms globally."
John Cuddihy, President of NewsProNet's International Division, added, "Rick has already brought many valuable contributions to our operation and we are delighted that he has agreed to become more involved with our efforts."
NewsProNet is the creator and syndicator of short-form programming, licensed to more than 300 Web sites and co-produced with some of the most-recognized names in business and consumer news. The company's properties include HealthDay TV video reports, co-produced with HealthDay news service, one of the leading health news organizations in the U.S., and "The Main Street Money Minute," a co-production with TheStreet.com's personal consumer finance news site, MainStreet.com
NewsProNet also provides syndicated news content to major market TV stations across the U.S., including local NBC, ABC, CBS and FOX affiliates.
About NewsProNet
NewsProNet Video, Inc. with headquarters in Miami and offices in Boston and San Diego, is a privately held company that produces original syndicated news services for local broadcasters and online news destinations. NewsProNet news segments reach more than 50% of U.S. TV households and millions of online visitors every month. NewsProNet provides content services to stations and websites owned by major affiliate groups, including ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, Scripps Broadcasting, Cox Broadcasting, BELO Broadcasting, Raycom Media, Meredith and others. For more information visit www.newspronetvideo.com/
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