New 24-hour Spanish-language public television channel brings high-quality Spanish programming to Maryland communities
OWINGS MILLS, Md. – Lt. Governor Anthony G. Brown and Maryland Public Television launched V-me today. The first Spanish-language channel on public television in Maryland, V-Me will offer quality, original programming for Latino families.
“We are launching a new channel today as well as a renewed commitment to embracing the diversity that has shaped the American landscape for generations,” said Lt. Governor Anthony G. Brown. “It is important that we remember that our diversity and our multi-cultured society are incredible reflections upon the traditions of our nation and the bright futures we will leave for our children to inherit.”
The 24-hour network—pronounced “veh-meh” and meaning “see me” is available on Comcast (channel 201) and Verizon (channel 881). V-me will bring a new kind of quality entertainment to Latino viewers, offering a fresh alternative in Spanish television that engages, entertains, empowers and inspires its viewers.
“V-me will fill a need for quality Spanish-language television within the growing Latino population of Maryland and beyond,” said Robert Shuman, president and CEO of MPT. “As they learn English, V-me will help our Spanish-speaking community to become better-informed citizens and make sure their children are prepared for school.”
V-me is a multi-platform environment with a robust website presenting issues, forums, content and resources for Latinos. V-me Media, Inc. is a media company formed to create and distribute the best quality content for Hispanics in the U.S. and internationally.
“All across the country, Latinos want more from media—more visibility, more quality and more choices,” said Carmen DiRienzo, president of V-me. “V-me provides intelligent entertainment that explores interests and issues Hispanics share with all Americans, and connects the many diverse Latino communities across the country.”
V-me is one of MPT’s three digital channels, and—due to MPT’s robust, statewide transmitters—will be broadcast not only throughout Maryland, but also all of Washington, D.C., northern Virginia and parts of West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Delaware. The company is a partnership of PBS flagship, Thirteen/WNET New York, and private investors, led by The Baeza Group and including Syncom Funds, both of which specialize in investing in media companies to reach underserved markets. Company revenues will come from the development and launch of strategic partnerships, the international syndication of its originally produced and co-produced programs, and sales of post-broadcast products such as DVDs and other program related products. V-me is the first venture announced by newly formed media production and distribution company, V-me Media Inc.
Source: Governor O'Malley's Office