Grand Rapids Television Stations Unite During COVID-19

Four Grand Rapids Television stations, WOOD-TV, WWMT-TV, WXMI-TV and WZZM-TV have come together during the COVID-19 pandemic to let their viewers know that local television news provides critical up-to-the-minute news, health and safety information.

On April 16, the four stations began airing a joint public service announcement in the first commercial break of their 6 p.m. newscasts that features journalists from each station.

The stations plan to air the special PSA on May 1, when the Michigan Stay Home, Safe Order is currently scheduled to end.

“I think all of us, at every station, are acutely aware of the responsibility we have to keep our community informed,” said Kim Krause, Vice President and General Manager of WXMI-TV/FOX 17. “Especially when it comes to issues that are vital to public safety and well-being. I’m pleased we were able to put competition aside, especially at a time like this. We wanted to let West Michigan know, with a unified message, that their local broadcasters are serious about our shared responsibility and common mission.”

“Public service is at the forefront of what local broadcast stations are all about,” said WWMT-TV/Newschannel 3 Vice President and General Manager Fred Corbus. “All of us in local news will always continue to serve our communities and provide our viewers with the timely and relevant information they need to help get them through this unprecedented crisis. We are proud to partner with our colleagues and strengthen our commitment to everyone who lives and works in West Michigan.”

“Across the country, broadcast TV reaches the same number of adults in one day as social media does in one month, and local TV is consistently the most trusted source of news among all media platforms,” said WZZM-TV13 ON YOUR SIDE President and General Manager Dan Baylog. “In West Michigan at this unprecedented time, I’m pleased that the local broadcasters of our communities are able to convey this message of unity, no matter which station our viewers choose.”

“There is a deep history and a commitment to excellence that exists within our West Michigan journalism community,” said Julie Brinks, Vice President and General Manager of WOOD-TV8/WOTV 4/WXSP-TV. “That commitment means working together to ensure all critical information is available, as well as stories of encouragement and inspiration to carry us through this challenging time.”