Jefferson Pilot Corp. is reporting good news for the company’s third quarter. For the first nine months of this year, Jefferson Pilot’s operating earnings of $2.24/share were 6 percent above operating earnings during the same period last year. Total earnings per share for the third quarter, including realized investment gains, increased 5 percent to $0.87 in the third quarter of 2000. Year to date, total earnings of $2.70 per share are 6 percent above earnings per share for the same period last year.

All per-share results are on a diluted basis and reflect a three-for-two stock split that was completed April 9.

The company reports broadcast cash flow for the quarter was down — $16.2 million vs. $21.1 million at year-earlier levels. Year to date, communications earnings were reported at $23.7 million, vs. $27.7 million in the third quarter of 2000.

Jefferson Pilot Communications Co. owns and operates 17 radio stations, three network TV stations and produces and syndicates sports programming.