News Brief
Quick stories from the technology, journalism and media industries, updated daily.

NAB Leadership Foundation adds two new board members
The appointments were announced this week by NABLF President Michelle Duke, who said both executives bring extensive experience across broadcast, digital media and strategic transactions.

Bitmovin adds support for SGAI to enhance ad-supported streaming products
Bitmovin on Tuesday announced it has added support for Server-Guided Ad Insertion (SGAI) across its playback products, a move aimed at improving ad delivery and monetization for streaming video providers.

Amazon to offer Spectrum TV app for Fire TV devices
Charter Communications and Amazon have reached a new distribution agreement that involves offering Fire TV users access to the Spectrum TV app. The app will be available as a free download in the Amazon App Store for Fire TV devices ... Read more

TuneIn adds distribution deal with NBC Sports Radio
TuneIn will offer live and studio programming from NBC Sports through a new agreement with the broadcaster.

FCC names Farhan Khan as Chief Information Officer
The FCC named Farhan Khan as Chief Information Officer, tasking him with leading IT strategy, modernization and cybersecurity as the agency supports evolving telecommunications needs and infrastructure.

Oregon TV stations owned by Zolo return to DIRECTV
DIRECTV has restored two television stations in Bend, Oregon to its satellite and streaming services after reaching a new carriage agreement covering the outlets.

Sinclair to consolidate newsrooms in Tulsa, drop news anchors from ABC affiliate
Starting in May, KTUL will shift to a reporter-driven format, emphasizing field reporting over traditional anchor-led newscasts.
FIRST ON THE DESK

Ex-Bally Sports executive cancels plan to acquire TV stations
A former Bally Sports television executive has withdrawn his interest in acquiring several local television stations from Imagicomm.
FIRST ON THE DESK

Law&Crime will publish uncensored crime scene images through new subscription
Law&Crime is launching a subscription service that will offer the public direct access to crime investigation materials.

Hearst promotes Christopher Martinez to VP, Advanced Advertising
Hearst Television has promoted Christopher Martinez to the newly created role of Vice President, Advanced Advertising.
EXECUTIVE MOVES

Nexstar agrees to divest six stations to close on TEGNA deal
Nexstar Media Group agreed to sell six television stations in order to gain regulatory approvals for its $6.2 billion acquisition of TEGNA, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) revealed on Thursday.
FIRST ON THE DESK

Scott Rates named news director at CBS stations in Sacramento
Paramount's CBS News & Stations has named Scott Rates as its news director for the company's Sacramento market duopoly.
EXECUTIVE MOVES