From Glen Schaefer of The Province:
Mr. D, CBC – “Field Trip”
Gerry helps Bobbi supervise her Grade 5/6 field trip to the museum, while Jeff and Robert cover his classes back at Xavier.
The Big Decision, CBC – “Lavish and Squalor + Camino”
Arlene Dickinson attempts to help save Lavish and Squalor, a hip Toronto retailer that is suffering from the recession, and Camino, an organic chocolate brand that has hit a sour note.
Mr. Young, YTV
No episode information available.
Lost Girl, Showcase – “”Lachlan’s Gambit”
The Ash takes drastic action against the threat bearing down on him, which in turn convinces Bo to make a potentially life-threatening decision. When those close to her suffer devastating injuries, Bo can no longer ignore her destiny. Written by Steve Cochrane, directed by Steve DiMarco.
Less Than Kind, HBO Canada – “Not Awkward Or Weird, Just Awesome”
Sheldon, Miriam and Mr. Lubbe make a disturbing discovery about Danny’s whereabouts. When Anne confronts Jim Sheridan the driving school becomes the subject of a suspiciously timed inspection. Josh confronts Shandra at work. Nicholas Campbell and Kevin McDonald guest star.
Heartland, CBC – “True Calling”
When Amy’s dog Lobo is injured by a trigger-happy rancher, it’s up to Ty to save his life.
Canada’s Smartest Person, CBC
An entertaining special that will redefine what it means to be smart. Four top participants will face fun and spectacular challenges to prove that they have the most versatile smarts in the country and earn the title of Canada’s Smartest Person. Viewers will be able to test themselves at home using innovative, interactive play-along apps. You’ll never look at intelligence the same way again.
Canada’s Got Talent, Citytv – “Toronto: Part Two”
Surprises abound for host Dina Pugliese and judges Martin Short, Measha Brueggergosman and Stephan Moccio in the second part of Toronto’s exhilarating auditions.
“Halifax/Vancouver: Part Twoâ€
Host Dina Pugliese and judges Martin Short, Measha Brueggergosman and Stephan Moccio look for the most talented performers in the Maritimes during the Halifax auditions. Then, they travel to the West Coast for additional performances in Vancouver.
From Bill Harris of QMI:
Bell to buy Astral
BCE Inc. announced, on March 16, 2012, its intent to buy Astral Media Inc., pending CRTC approval. The transaction, funded 75% by cash and 25% by BCE Inc. common equity, is valued at around $3.38 billion. As part of the purchase, BCE Inc. assumes $380 million in Astral Media Inc. debt.
A $150 million penalty will be paid by Bell to Astral, should Bell’s acquisition of Astral fall through. If another company courts Astral (as Astral can’t solicit other offers), and Astral ultimately shuns Bell for a “superior proposal,” Astral pays a $100 million termination fee to Bell. Bell has first right to match any “superior” counter-offer.
The Bell/Astral deal attracts critics, including Carleton University journalism professor Dwayne Winseck.
Bell, the largest telecommunications/media company in Canada by market share, wants the eighth-largest telecom/media company. Theoretically, the Astral purchase opens a gateway into Quebec homes, strengthens Bell’s radio reach, and establishes Bell in the premium television arena.
Shareholders can vote on the Bell/Astral transaction, at a meeting to be held on or before May 25, 2012.
Continue reading Industry Update – Bell/Astral, CRTC, APTN
