MILWAUKEE: Journal Broadcast Corp., the TV and radio subsidiary of Journal Communications, received a $25,000 fine from the FCC for illegally operating two satellite earth stations. The FCC claims Journal neglected to file timely renewal applications for the fixed facilities. Journal’s previous authorizations expired in February and July of 2008, of which the company was said to become aware the following September. An application for special temporary authority was immediately filed and granted, and permanent authorizations were granted in November, 2008 and January of this year.
The FCC said not knowing the expiration date of operating authorizations was no excuse for letting them lapse. The commission found Journal in violation of its rules. A $32,000 fine was initially proposed, but because the full fines are aimed at pirates, and Journal informed the FCC of its own violation, the amount was adjusted to $25,000.
Journal has 12 TV and 35 radio stations. The call signs of the two earth stations involved were E850092 and E980274.
-- Deborah D. McAdams
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