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Proposal of the Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey, Inc.

To Manage and Operate the

New Jersey Television Network

Focusing on New Jersey

Prepared for: State of New Jersey

Prepared by: The Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey (PBCNJ)

March 11th, 2011

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Executive Summary

This proposal is for the expressed purpose of management and operation of the NJN Television Network, pursuant to the New Jersey Public Broadcasting System Transfer Act of 2010. For purposes of our response, this proposal tracks and references the paragraphs of the RFP.

The Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey (“PBCNJ”) seeks transforming the New Jersey Television Network (NJN) by creating “new” New Jersey-centric programming while simultaneously equipping the network with state of the art electronics and remote filming capability.

PBCNJ assembled a world class team of experts, including prominent individuals in the areas of public broadcasting, programming and fundraising. PBCNJ will leverage its extensive connections into the television, film and music venues, bringing to New Jersey world class and nationally known artists. Additionally, PBCNJ intends to partner with New Jersey’s county colleges, providing internships, jobs, new studio equipment and greater visibility for these institutions.

PBCNJ will expand the NJN audience to communities currently underserved by NJN, including minority and inner city audiences as well as other ethnic and cultural associations; this initiative will be accomplished through an aggressive public affairs and cultural programming outreach effort coupled with community involvement.

PBCNJ will operate NJN in a business-like manner, focusing on cost control and containment, while employing assets toward the introduction of new programming.

PBCNJ anticipates no subsidies from the State, as its business plan is self sustaining.

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Section 3.0: Minimum Requirements

The Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey (“PBCNJ”) is a nonprofit corporation, organized as an educational and charitable corporation, validly existing and in good standing under the New Jersey Nonprofit Corporation act (N.J.S. 15A:1-1 et seq.) and is organized such as to qualify as a nonprofit corporation under section 501c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code exempt from taxation.

PBCNJ’s certificate of incorporation and its by-laws authorize the company to operate the FCC operating licensees that are currently assigned to the NJPBA and one of the purposes of the entity includes operation of a public broadcast system (Appendix Item 1).

PBCNJ, if selected as the operator and manager of NJN, will provide public broadcasting services operating the public broadcasting system consistent with all F.C.C. license requirements.

Section 7.0: Term of Television Operating Agreements

PBCNJ proposes that the Operating Agreement be for an initial term of 10 years, with two successive 5 year options, for a total period of (potentially) 20 years.

Section 8.0: Required Components of the Proposal

8.1 PBCNJ is responding to the Television Operations RFP, solely seeks to manage and operate the New Jersey Television Network, inclusive of all applicable assets and holdings.

8.2 Contact: Jerald R. Cureton, Esq., President, 524 Main Street, Riverton, NJ. Telephone 609 923 0665.

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8.3 PBCNJ is a not-for-profit corporation with the principal office located in _________________ County, New Jersey. PBCNJ is in the process of acquiring multiple television studios located in north, central and southern New Jersey while retaining an interest toward negotiating a lease of NJN’s current location at 600 Stockton Street, Trenton, New Jersey.

A diverse Board of Directors, consisting of notable New Jersey individuals, oversee PBCNJ’s operations. PBCNJ’s board members are committed to improving public broadcasting in New Jersey, insuring that PBCNJ not only delivers quality public television, but also brings public broadcasting into the 21st century through the aggressive introduction of new programs, services and technological applications focused on New Jersey’s rich multi-cultural background and population.

PBCNJ board membership consists of the following individuals and their status:

Brian Newbius, Chairman (African-American)

J. Sean Diaz, Vice President (Latino)

Jose Sosa (Latino)

Gerald Slater (Caucasian)

Barbara Miller (Caucasian)

Rev. Mark Merrill (African-American)

William D. Lutz, PhD (Caucasian)

Timothy Touhey (Caucasian)

Stacey Robinson (African-American)

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New Jersey is the only state where all of it’s counties are officially classified as metropolitan areas while possessing a substantial number of rural and suburban areas. New Jersey’s population is greater per square mile than mainland India, highlighting PBCNJ’s need to reach out and expand viewership to a wider audience range.

8.4 PBCNJ will manage and operate the entire NJN Television Network, utilizing both HD and SD streaming.

8.5 Qualifications

(a) The entity that would be party to any Television Operating Agreement and would operate the NJN Television Network is the Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey (PBCNJ). Given PBCNJ’s extensive contacts and resources, PBCNJ is fully qualified to operate a non-commercial / educational public television network. PBCNJ team includes award-winning professional staffing and resources operating a statewide public broadcasting network. The specifics

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of key staff members and their qualifications are noted in this proposal within Appendix Item 2 of this proposal, “Qualified Staff”.

PBCNJ will insure quality programming New Jersey residents expect from Public Broadcasting Service, while introducing new and diverse programming enhancing New Jersey’s public broadcasting.

(b) PBCNJ will commit a minimum of non-Federal funding amounting to$800,000.00 directed specifically toward PBCNJ’s obligations with the Corporation for Public Broadcasting requirements.

(c) PBCNJ will meet the minimum broadcast requirements of programming and station operation to run seven (7) days a week, 52 weeks a year for a total of at least 3,000 or 58 hours per week of dedicated public broadcasting programming.

PBCNJ offers educational programming, conducting educational outreach activities through computer / Internet access, community service outreach inclusive of programming dedicated to cultural / ethnic events and shows and news media broadcast including (but not limited to) special public news programming focusing on key issues impacting the State of New Jersey and it’s residents.

(d) PBCNJ’s application for 501(c)(3) status is pending before the Internal Revenue Service. Documentation is attached within Appendix Item 3.

(e) PBCNJ’s Executive Committee and it’s Board of Directors fully supports and endorses this proposal. Documentation of PBCNJ’s Executive Committee’s support for its proposal is attached. (Please see Appendix Item 4 for this letter).

(f) PBCNJ is a newly formed nonprofit entity focused toward transforming the New Jersey Television Network (NJN) by creating and introducing “new” New Jersey-

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centric programming while simultaneously equipping the station with state of the art electronics and remote filming capability. PBCNJ has assembled a world class team of experts, including prominent individuals in the areas of broadcasting, programming and fundraising.

PBCNJ will leverage its connections into the television, film and music industry, bringing to New Jersey world class and nationally known artists. Additionally, PBCNJ will draw upon it’s extensive partnership with New Jersey’s county colleges, providing internships, jobs, new equipment and visibility for these institutions in conjunction with utilizing college studios and their respective academic programs.

PBCNJ will expand NJN audience to communities currently underserved by NJN, reaching out to minority and inner city audiences as well as other ethnic and cultural associations through a program of aggressive public affairs outreach, cultural programming and direct community involvement.

(g) PBCNJ proposes the most extensive and dynamic Jersey-centric programming in the history of NJN. PBCNJ will refresh NJN’s public service broadcasting through a vast diverse array of programming intended for a wider audience, exposing the audience to a greater range of television experiences (for more information, please refer to 8.8 “Operating Plans - Programming”). PBCNJ will continue offering the public broadcasting standards viewers expect along with the New Jersey News and the exceptional political news coverage NJN has enjoyed in prior years.

Along with our other in-kind considerations PBCNJ offers expanded news coverage of New Jersey news and special events through the aggressive usage of mobile broadcasting vans located in key locations throughout the state. These mobile units will enable PBCNJ to cover live cultural / musical events

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while enhancing on the spot news coverage of news and special events taking place anywhere in New Jersey.

(h) As a new entity, PBCNJ does not have prior budgets or financial reports. PBCNJ’s projected budget for its first year of operation is attached as Appendix item 5.

8.6 Total Value of Consideration

a) Total value of consideration to be paid to the State Treasurer. (need information)

b) Reimbursement of any or all direct or indirect operating costs for the NJN television Network. (Need Information)

c) In-kind Considerations

As part of it’s offering, PBCNJ is willing to include the following in-kind considerations:

1. Usage of PBCNJ state of the art studio services and resources broadcasting significant State functions, such as the State of the State address or other notable events. Additional broadcasts are anticipated, up to a value of $500,000, and are subject to negotiation in the TOA.

2. Partnership with various state and county colleges. These partnerships will include the sharing of resources, study programs, internships and jobs.

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PBCNJ’s extensive resources, coupled with it’s skilled personnel and access to it’s state of the art studio services and facilities can bring much to the table.

3. PBCNJ offers advanced and skilled network personnel broadcasting both via standard television access and programming distribution via the Internet, thereby reaching a greater audience both within and outside of the State of New Jersey.

4. PBCNJ offers additional operating studio’s located in Southern New Jersey and Northern New Jersey, while retaining usage of one (1) studio at the present NJN facility in Trenton, thereby insuring additional operating services and extending the ability of PBCNJ to better reach into all communities located throughout the state.

8.7 Financial capacity (need information)

a) PBCNJ’s proposed budget is enclosed as Appendix Item 5.

b) Financials including: (need information on this section)

a) Information on our sources

b) Reserves

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c) Exiting Financing

d) Lines of credit. PBCNJ intends for apply for a line of credit with a New Jersey bank.

8.8 Operating Plans

PBCNJ will offer it’s own resources - both Studio and Equipment - while introducing fresh Programming, vibrant Online and Mobile Programming delivered through skilled professional Staffing and Personnel supported by an extensive Partnership and Resource network.

Studio and Equipment

PBCNJ interest in utilization of existing equipment currently held by NJN depends upon due diligence and review of the existing equipment meeting our technical service requirements. PBCNJ anticipates usage of one (1) studio located at the main NJN facility in Trenton; all other studios / facilities and equipment will be obtained via PBCNJ. In addition, PBCNJ will also be acquiring additional studios (as so deemed necessary) throughout the state.

Programming

Among some of the programming we offer (outside of selected programs mandated / offered by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting) are:

* Nutritional based children’s program, “Culinary College for Kids”, highlighting Jersey Fresh Produce / Products as well as encouraging healthy eating and children’s dietary

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requirements. Children will be drawn to learning more about nutrition as PBCNJ will conduct the shows with popular media notables to be announced at a later date pending the results of this RFP response.

* “New Jersey Reads” Literacy Programming involving popular media figures and actors, “New Jersey Reads” will engage youth into learning and being aware of the importance of literacy and learning

* Music Programs. PBCNJ, through SoPoz, will introduce new and cutting youth-orientated music programs and events. SoPoz is a multifaceted full service high-tech multimedia, marketing and entertainment company providing positive entertainment, education and socialization for today’s youth. SoPoz utilizes state-of-the-art technology and Internet services to develop education based activities attracting youth to participate in SoPoz self-development programs. SoPoz programs go beyond education by providing after school and extra curriculum learning activities that prepare America’s youth to become productive citizens. 

Public broadcasting is a major window to the world for children of all ages and background; the Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey intends to expand and offer fresh and cutting edge shows specifically geared for children while continuing to deliver the regular standards broadcast through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

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* World Best Chefs. The New Jersey viewing area is home (sometimes literally) to a number of the best chefs of the world. Highlighting the theme of Jersey Fresh products, PBCNJ offers one of the best kitchen studios, bringing to New Jersey audiences ground breaking chefs. Among the chefs included in this program are such notables as Georges Pierrier, Olivie Desaint Martine along with many others.

* Leadership New Jersey. Expanding upon coverage of issues and affairs impacting the average new Jersey resident, we offer greater public affairs programming and interviews with political, business and religious leaders throughout New Jersey.

* New Jersey Neighborhoods will film on location and in studio interviews. This program focuses on the multitude of diverse communities throughout New Jersey. Programs will highlight not only our robust cities and historic communities, but will also focus on the variety of ethnic groups enriching New Jersey, exposing viewers to new viewpoints, neighborhoods and lifestyles that are prevalent throughout New Jersey.

* New Jersey Talent This program would showcase emerging talent in New Jersey. New Jersey is the origin for many notable talents over the years, with such names as Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Count Basie, George Clinton (Parliament), Donald Fagan (Steely Dan), Lauryn Hill, Ice-T, the Jonas Brothers - along with a whole host of other famous artists. Given New Jersey’s overlooked impact on our national culture, the time has come to showcase ‘homegrown’ talent.

* Other music programs and shows focusing and working with the multitude of groupings within New Jersey, including (but not limited to) African-American, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Venezuelan, Cuban, Vietnamese, Cambodian, etc. Many concerts events in New Jersey often go unnoticed or are not broadcasted, denying viewers a vast array of ethnic music and events. These events often fail to receive any coverage owing to their not having direct studio / professional staff access. Exposing viewers to cultural events

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while linking smaller venue promoters brings musicians and viewers previously unnoted or only seen by a very select few while empowering grass roots / community involvement with public broadcasting services.

As noted by the recent United States Census figures, the minority population in New Jersey is growing rapidly, thus underscoring a need that public broadcasting must meet. As but one example, Union City, New Jersey has more Cubans than Havana, Cuba!

Online and Mobile Applications

PBCNJ will revamp the NJN website, enabling viewer access to PBCNJ through their mobile phones / devices; view and interact with PBCNJ for online educational games, online services for schools as well as access to a vast library of child-specific movies and shows. Viewers both within and outside of New Jersey will access our diverse programming and services regardless of location or time of day, through their home computers, IPads, handhelds or other devices.

Educational institutions will also be strongly encouraged to directly link to our online services to enable classroom instruction and student viewing of our programming services.

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8.9. Staffing Plan and Organizational Chart

a) Staffing Plan (Organizational chart) for operating the NJN Television Network is attached as Appendix Item 6.

b) Pending our due diligence of the present staffing complement, PBCNJ reserves the right to interview and review present staff for remaining openings.

8.10 Motivation

New Jersey public broadcasting presently fails meeting it’s public obligations and potential, particularly in light of studio broadcasting technological advances. Many of New Jersey’s population segment - ranging from Spanish speaking groupings (Puerto Rican, Dominican, Cuban and others) to Asian (Indian, Vietnamese and others) as well as the urban population groupings - are often overlooked. New Jersey is a vibrant, dynamic state home to many people of many diverse backgrounds: public broadcasting in New Jersey must reflect this fact.

We are residents of New Jersey; we have a vested interest in making our home better.

PBCNJ rejuvenates New Jersey Network’s stagnant service, offering direct public access and fresh programming captivating audiences and delivering far more to New Jersey residents while insuring New Jersey public television stands out with a cutting edge national reputation.

Our programming is extensive and wide-ranging, focusing upon New Jersey centric issues, events, people and culture. PBCNJ is committed to promoting New Jersey and New Jersey centric programming. New Jersey is negatively cast, often viewed through the lenses of “The Sopranos” or “Jersey Shore”, overlooking the rich cultural variety that New

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Jersey possesses as well as it’s deep historical relevance in American society and its’ contributions to the United States.

8.11 Partnerships or other arrangements

PBCNJ has networked with various community colleges as part of a partnership network . Inclusive in these partnership networks PBCNJ offers internships, jobs and practical real world experience via PBCNJ’s programming and network services. In exchange, PBCNJ will link with community college resources and services for local programming inclusive of cultural and ethnic events, enabling PBCNJ greater reach into local community level.

PBCNJ will utilize Jersey-centric / home talent resources while encouraging the next generation of television network professionals. PBCNJ is committed to meeting the present and the future needs of public broadcasting, as well as establishing New Jersey’s public Broadcast leadership role. PBCNJ will make NJN a model for other states to emulate, drawing upon private capital and resources through a business model previously unrealized.

PBCNJ’s recognizes New Jersey is a vibrant and evolving state; so too must New Jersey Public Broadcasting evolve. As New Jersey is becoming more ethnically and culturally rich and varied, both the means and the content of public broadcasting in New Jersey must do the same. PBCNJ is ready to meet these challenges head on with a professional, well-experienced staff and a vast array of resources answering these challenges bringing New Jersey public broadcasting into the 21st century while attaining national recognition.

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8.12 Additional Information

Not applicable.

Following this section are the appendix items.

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Appendix

Item 1: Certification of Incorporation

Item 2: Qualified Staff Listing

Item 3: PBCNJ 501(c)3 Status

Item 4: Letter of Support from PBCNJ Board

Item 5: Budgetary Information

Item 6: Network Staffing Detail

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Appendix 1: PBCNJ Certificate of Incorporation

Attached to this page please find the certificate of incorporation for the Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey.

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Appendix 2: Qualified Staff Listing

PBCNJ has, at this time, commitments from several key individuals dedicated to revamping NJN.

Among PBCNJ’s qualified staff members are:

Jerry Slater, General Manager

Margaret “Peggy” Giordano

Ms. Giordano is an Emmy award winning broadcast journalist with 30 years experience at the local, regional and national levels. Ms. Giordano has worked for Group W, Bloomberg and PBS, producing a wide range of independent projects as well as extensive consulting services. Ms. Giordano is credited with created such shows as “America’s Vital Signs”, “Night Talk” and “Your Morning on CN8”.

Dennis Rivell, CFO

Mr. Rivell has an extensive background with regard to financial management and services, having served (along other duties) as the CFO for the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles.

Copies of their biographies have been attached for review.

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Appendix 3: PBCNJ’s 501(c)3 Status

Attached to this page please find the Public Broadcasting Company of New Jersey’s 501(c)3 registration.

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Appendix 4: Letter of Support

Attached to this page please find the letter of support from the Board supporting our intent and effort to secure NJN Television.

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Appendix 5: Budgetary Information / Review

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Appendix 6: Staffing / Organizational Chart

Attached to this section please find a breakdown of salalries and staffing positions, along with an organizational chart.

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