VU Television Network to Make U.S. Debut this Fall

HOLLYWOOD: VU Television Network, a new U.S. channel from IC Punch Media that will feature reality series, comedy, drama, local entertainment news and more, is to make its official launch on September 23.

The network will debut in 15 major U.S. cities in September, offering original programming combined with local entertainment news and event offerings in each city. Children’s programming will run on weekday mornings and it weekend time slots.

"The main differentiator for VU Television will be our local presence in each city. While the majority of networks that have launched over the past few years have only been able to offer national cable programing, VU Televisions will tap into the power of our icplaces.com websites to enhance and attract more audience numbers," said Steven Samblis, CEO of IC Punch Media. "Over the past eight years, through our icplaces.com websites, we have built a large contingence of local partnerships and viewers in each city. These include local concert and event partners in each market, along with restaurant partners, business partners, theaters, both large and small, Hollywood studios and Out of Home Network partners. We will now harness these relationships and deliver it to our stations in each and every city, giving us a true local presence combined with an amazing lineup of original programing and content."

Gayle Dickie has been brought in to serve as the president of IC Punch Media and the newly created VU Television Network. Gayle will be overseeing the day-to-day operations of the multiplatform broadcast, cable, OOHD and streaming content distribution channels. The company will create original content as well as establish strategic partnerships on an ad-revenue share basis.

"Gayle Dickie’s vast relationships and extensive background in programming, syndication, broadcast and technology makes her the perfect person to lead our network during this unprecedented time of multimedia platform entertainment," said Samblis.

Dickie’s first appointment is James Allen Bradley, as executive VP of production and operations. For the newly created position of executive VP of sales and marketing partnerships, Dickie named Meredith Walters for the role.

"I’ve known Meredith for over 20 years and couldn’t wait to bring her on board," said Dickie. "She’s innovative in her sales approach and brings a diverse broadcast and cable background including the OOHD platforms."

"I couldn’t be more thrilled to work with these talented and solid executives," continued Dickie, who has been working closely with Samblis and Bradley.