* CBC has shuffled several execs in its arts and entertainment department in hopes of spurring more work with independent producers and other network branches, including news, radio, and CBC.ca.

George Anthony, former creative head of arts and science, is now director of special projects for CBC A&E. Lisa Clarkson becomes director of production financing, Brian Freeman is the new creative head of special projects, drama, and Anton Leo has been installed as exec in charge of TV comedy.

Susan Morgan is now creative head of drama, Fred Nicolaidis is creative head for variety, and Kim Wilson has been re-posted as deputy creative head of kids and youth.

* Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment’s Canadian office has promoted Greg Tyrala, a 10-year veteran with Fox, from director of sales – rental and distribution to VP of sales, overseeing the Canadian sales team. Karim Trottier has been promoted to associate director of national sales – leading the development of Canadian-wide rental and sell-through initiatives – bumped up from senior national account manager, a position now filled by David Littlewood (formerly the national account manager).

Finally, Laura Turner has been promoted to associate director of marketing, now responsible for all of Fox’s Canadian marketing activities. Prior to the promotion she served as marketing manager, rental/distribution.

* Kelly Lynne Ashton is the new director, collective bargaining and research at ACTRA. The new position puts Ashton, ex of Owl Television and Atlantis Films, in charge of negotiation, enforcement and administration of the union’s various agreements.

* Charles Falzon has been named to the board of directors at Peace Arch Entertainment in Vancouver. A production sector veteran, Falzon previously was CEO at Catalyst Entertainment, president at Gullane Entertainment PLC and founding chairman of the CFTPA. He is currently on the board of governors of the Banff Television Foundation.

* Barb Matheson has been appointed to the position of publicist at CHUM Television. Matheson was previously publicist for CHUM specialty Star! and Barrie, ON affiliate The New VR.

* Simi Sara and Shane Foxman took over as the new cohosts of the evening news at Citytv Vancouver last month, and were joined on air by politician-turned-broadcaster Rafe Mair, who is fronting a new editorial segment.