Gospel Music Channel, which has been seeking carriage deals with operators that didn’t initially agree to put GMC on in place of Black Family Channel, just scored its 1st such deal. Knology will launch GMC on digital basic in 4 markets (Augusta, GA; Charleston, SC; Huntsville, AL, and Columbus, GA), and the 2 are discussing other Knology markets. GMC announced May 1 that it would take over BFC’s distribution deals in nearly 275 systems, including Comcast Philly and Time Warner Cable NY. Black Family plans to start a broadband offering. Not all of Black Family’s former affils have agreed to carry GMC, with talks continuing between Mediacom, Suddenlink and others. Pres Charles Humbard said he considers it a positive sign that many of these providers are carrying GMC in Black Family’s place while discussions occur. GMC is notifying the new markets of its launch via the press, and a grassroots marketing campaign that includes getting the word out to church ministers, as well as through church marketing kits, he said.

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Friday–January 15

At the Commission

The FCC adopted a NPRM seeking comment on how to maximize efficient use of the 500MHz of mid-band spectrum available in the 12.2-12.7GHz band. The hope of the proceeding is to further a conversation as to

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