WSJV-28, FOX (TV Station)

WSJV-28 is a South Bend, Indiana-based television station and a part of the FOX network.

Station Owner
Quincy Newspapers

Use of Video News Releases and/or Satellite Media Tours
In the 5am news bulletin on March 16, 2006 the station broadcast an uncut version of a video news release (VNR) produced by Medialink Worldwide designed to help General Motors Corporation recruit young mechanics. The publicist featured in the VNR, Andrew Schmertz, was introduced as though he worked for FOX. 

According to a Citigroup website, WSJV aired a VNR promoting the company's "Do Something Financial Education Challenge" in April 2005. 

Responses to Report
In response to the Center for Media and Democracy's (CMD) Fake TV News report, station news director Ed Kral contacted CMD to declare that the March 16 incident referenced above was an accident, and that he would look into the circumstances behind the airing of a complete and undisclosed VNR from General Motors. Kral states that it's WSJV-28 policy to not use VNRs at all, and will share the results of his investigation with CMD.

When CMD called Kral back in late April 2006, he told CMD senior researcher Diane Farsetta, "I have been instructed by corporate not to talk to you people." 

Contact Details
FOX 28 PO Box 28 South Bend, IN 46624 Phone: (574)679-9758 General Fax - (574)294-1267 Phone News Room: (574)679-4545 News Room Fax - (574)522-7609 Web: http://www.fox28.com/

SourceWatch Resources

 * Audio news releases
 * B-Roll
 * Brand Hype
 * Branded Entertainment
 * Media releases
 * Satellite Media Tours
 * Radio Media Tours
 * Public Service Announcements
 * Video news releases: PR for California's Schwarzenegger administration