WBEZ defers to iPods, angers music fans

Reuters reports on WBEZ's decision to scrap music programming in favor of a 24-hour news and public affairs format, a move partially motivated by the growing popularity of the iPod as music lovers' platform of choice. But not all music lovers, apparently. "We feel very empty . . . [i]t seems like a decision that was made arbitrarily and without the input of listeners," said Mike Widdell, co-founder of protest/petition site savethemusiconwbez.org. Said WBEZ g.m. Torey Malatia: "This is a major decision for us and we knew it would have a strong reaction from people."

PBS announced Thursday that it was abandoning its plan to launch a 24-hour Kids Go! digital multicast channel in October. "While PBS stations support the concept of a 24-hour educational service for early elementary school-age children, an insufficient number of stations are in a position to financially sustain the service," Jill Corderman, associate publicity director for PBS Kids, wrote in an e-mail. (See also Broadcasting & Cable.) The two-hour Kids Go! block and companion website will carry on and PBS may offer additional Go! content via on-demand video or other new media platforms.

Google Video to offer Sundance Channel films

In the first of what promises to be many such partnerships, according to Google reps, the cyber-juggernaut has signed on to distribute original Sundance Channel films and series via its Google Video service, reports the Hollywood Reporter. Movie titles will be available for $3.99 for a 24-hour rental or $9.99 to own. Series are available only for purchase starting at $1.99 per episode.