CWIP expands beyond the West

Global Television has transferred administration of its Promotion of Programming Fund from the Canadian Television Fund to the CanWest Western Independent Producers Fund. CTF had administered the fund through its LFP program since April 2001. CWIP, created in 2000 when CanWest acquired broadcast undertakings previously held by WIC Western International Communications, will now administer the POP fund under executive director Sandra Green.

Citytv Vancouver launches media ed tool

Citytv Vancouver and its production partners Face to Face Media and the Jesuit Communication Project have launched the second edition of Scanning Television, a follow-up to one of Canada’s most-used media education tools in elementary and secondary schools.

The video and guidebook package uses 51 short videos on topics ranging from culture jamming and date rape to 9/11 and Lord of the Rings to get students and teachers to think critically about screen-based media.

The first edition of Scanning Television was released in 1996 in collaboration with CHUM Television. Citytv Vancouver’s support for the second edition is part of the station’s $400,000 commitment to media education initiatives over its licence term.

Lions Gate sponsors Banff indie producer prize

Lions Gate Television and the Banff Television Festival have announced the new Lions Gate Innovative Producer Award for Banff 2003. The award will be given in recognition of achievements of a Canadian independent producer. The winner will receive $5,000 from Lions Gate and will take part in the presentation of the award June 11 during the CTV Canadian Documart pitching session. The 24th BTVF will take place June 8-13.

The deadline for applications is April 4, and the winner will be announced in May. For info go to www.banff2003.com.