Fisher Communications is moving down the West Coast from its base in the Northwest to make its first acquisition in California. It will acquire KBAK-TV (Ch. 29, CBS) and KBFX-CA (Ch. 58, Fox) Bakersfield from Westwind Communications LLC for approximately 55 million bucks.
"We are delighted to enter the Bakersfield market by purchasing two excellent stations that have tremendous potential. At Fisher, our mission is to make each of our communities better by providing outstanding local news and content. We’re committed to bringing viewers of KBAK and KBFX more local news coverage, more in-depth news coverage and increased and enhanced online content. In the coming months, viewers will find compelling reasons to make them their first stop for local news. We look forward to serving the people of Bakersfield," said Fisher CEO Colleen Brown.
Following finalization of the purchase, Fisher intends to expand offerings for both stations. Currently, both share a single Web site; Fisher will support separate sites for each station and enhance both sites with the company’s online format, which includes such features as its user-generated YouNewsTV, expanded weather and event coverage, and enhanced sports coverage.
"We were determined to ensure that the stations remained in the hands of a long-term broadcaster dedicated to continuing and improving upon our 21-year commitment to the market," said Westwind President Wayne Lansche.
