Rxl Pulitzer To Develop TV Network For Beijing Some Programming For Network To Be Produced In Spokane, Seattle

Concepts in long-distance learning through educational television that were developed at Spokane’s Educational Service District 101 will be used to develop an educational television network in Beijing, China.

Beijing TV will be launched in China this fall under the guidance of the network’s U.S. partner, RXL Pulitzer.

RXL Pulitzer, which operates production facilities in Spokane, is a partner with ESD 101 in IDEANET, America’s largest long-distance learning consortium. IDEANET produces live, interactive programming for more than 4,000 schools throughout the United States.

“Beijing TV was interested in working with us because of the experience we’ve gained through IDEANET, and through our work with ESD 101,” said Kim Winters, a marketing associate with RXL Pulitzer. “They really want to provide educational opportunities to their constituents in Beijing and throughout China.”

Winters said the Chinese network officials explored a variety of potential partnerships worldwide before striking its deal with RXL Pulitzer.

RXL Pulitzer is a joint venture of The Rocky Company, a leading Northwest public relations firm; Morgan Murphy Stations, owner of KXLY television and radio in Spokane; and St. Louis-based Pulitzer Publishing Co.

RXL Pulitzer began its production relationship with Spokane’s ESD 101 in 1988, producing most of the programming ESD 101 transmits.

Earlier this week, several international corporations - including Microsoft, Compaq and Shell - signed on as founding sponsors of the Chinese television network.

The network will be broadcast over the air in Beijing, and distributed by satellite throughout the rest of China.

Winters said some of the network’s programming will be produced in Spokane and Seattle.