NextTV, Chicago Urban League's Business and Lifestyle Television Series, Wins Two Emmy Awards

NextTV, Chicago Urban League's Business and Lifestyle Television Series, Wins Two Emmy Awards

Debut season recognized for all episodes and editing

CHICAGO, Nov. 11 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- NextTV, the Chicago Urban League's business and lifestyle series, was awarded two Emmy Awards on Saturday, November 7 at the Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards ceremony. In recognition of its outstanding first season, which included a one hour special and thirteen episodes chronicling the economic empowerment work of the Chicago Urban League in a reality-style format, nextTV won Emmys in the following categories:

   1. Outstanding Achievement for Informational Programs -- Single Magazine      Program, Program Series, or Segment: NextTV Series: Cheryle R. Jackson,      Executive Producer; Tracey Scruggs Yearwood, Supervising Producer;      Michelle McKissack, Producer/Reporter; Beverly Price, Producer;       Richelle Rogers, Producer; Donna Wilson, Producer;  Milana Walter,      Producer; Ayana Bush, Producer    2. Outstanding Achievement for Individual Excellence Off Camera:      Editing-Non News: Ryan Mayers   

"NextTV winning two Emmy Awards for its debut season is a remarkable achievement," said Herman Brewer, acting president and CEO of the Chicago Urban League. "This fast-paced, dynamic program is needed at a time when so many people are searching for inspiration to overcome the obstacles in their lives. NextTV showcases everyday people beating the odds and succeeding in their lives and careers and making their entrepreneurial dreams a reality."

NextTV debuted on FOX Chicago (WFLD) and My50 Chicago (WPWR) in February 2009. NextTV quickly built a loyal audience and showcased successful African American entrepreneurs, job seekers and homeowners. In its first season, nextTV featured: business owners enrolled in the Urban League's rigorous nextONE program; individuals seeking new job opportunities; families looking for help with purchasing a home or saving their home from foreclosure; and some of the best African American owned places for entertainment and dining.

"I am thrilled that nextTV has been recognized with two Emmy Awards," said Cheryle Robinson Jackson, president and CEO of the Chicago Urban League, who is currently on a leave of absence. "When we set out to do a television show, all we had was an idea and a strong desire to showcase positive cultural images that give people hope. Thanks to our generous sponsors and our partnership with FOX Chicago, we have created an outstanding television program that, based on the Emmy wins, was much needed in the Chicago market."

"Winning two Emmy awards is proof positive that there is value in using the power of media to portray positive images of African Americans," said Tracey Scruggs Yearwood, supervising producer of nextTV and vice president of multimedia at the Urban League. "I am grateful for Cheryle Robinson Jackson's vision for nextTV, our sponsors, the production crew and on-air talent, and the dynamic Chicagoans who allowed us into their lives so their stories can empower others to succeed."

The second season of nextTV is currently in production. Encore episodes of season one can be viewed on Sundays at 12:30 p.m. CT on My50 Chicago (WPWR). Archived episodes of the first season of nextTV and an interactive blog can be accessed at www.changeyoucansee.com. Season one sponsors of nextTV included BP, ComEd, Allstate, The Black McDonald's Operators Association and The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation. Production support for nextTV is provided by Media Process Group.

About the Chicago Urban League

Established in 1916, the Chicago Urban League is a civil rights organization that empowers and inspires individuals to reach and exceed their economic potential. The Chicago Urban League supports and advocates for economic, educational and social progress for African-Americans through our agenda focused exclusively on economic empowerment as the key driver for social change. For more information, visit www.thechicagourbanleague.org and www.DriveChangeNow.org.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Chicago Urban League

CONTACT: Roderick K. Hawkins of the Chicago Urban League,
+1-773-451-3536, cell: +1-773-892-5427

Web Site: http://www.thechicagourbanleague.org/
http://www.changeyoucansee.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment