CHUM Television Increases Commitment to Media Education: Becomes MNet Gold Sponsor

OTTAWA, October 14, 2003 – Media Awareness Network (MNet) is pleased to announce that CHUM Television has increased its sponsorship support to the highest level – Gold Sponsor. The company also becomes the first corporate sponsor to enter into a multi-year sponsorship agreement with MNet.

“One of the true advantages we can give our children today is the media literacy skills they need to develop an informed and critical understanding of the nature of the media, the techniques used in creating media products, and the media’s role and influence within society,“ says Dr. André H. Caron, MNet Chair and Founding Director of the Centre for Research on Youth and Media, University of Montreal.

“Achieving this goal is at the heart of MNet’s work, and it is where CHUM Television’s support is making a real difference in the lives of young Canadians,” Dr. Caron explained. “CHUM’s financial contribution, strong participation on MNet’s Board of Directors, and respect for the integrity and independence of our work make it a valuable partner. We look forward to the new opportunities that will flow from the company’s decision to increase its support and help MNet stabilize its funding base through a multi-year sponsorship agreement.”

“CHUM Television has supported media education initiatives across Canada and promoted the importance of media literacy to our audiences for nearly two decades,” said Sarah Crawford, CHUM Limited’s Vice President, Public Affairs, and MNet Board member. “We believe media literacy encourages youth to become active and critically aware participants in their multi-media environment. MNet’s balanced approach and practical resources are key to helping parents, educators and others equip young people with the tools they need to become smart and responsible media users and producers, and engaged citizens.”

MNet is an award-winning non-profit Canadian organization incorporated in 1996, with offices in Ottawa and Montreal. Its bilingual media education, Internet literacy and research programs provide practical resources and support for teachers, parents, health professionals, librarians and other community leaders through its internationally recognized Web site – www.media-awareness.ca.

- 30 -

Contact:

William Allen
Director, Communications
Media Awareness Network