Dear Ottumwa Community,
Recent communications have highlighted a significant transition in how Ottumwa Bulldog Sports will be shared with our community, moving from a long-standing partnership with Ottumwa Radio to embracing a new direction with the Bulldog Network. We understand this change comes with many questions and emotions, given Ottumwa Radio's dedicated service over the past 50+ years. We aim to clarify the reasons behind this decision and outline the promising opportunities it brings to our students and community.
Ottumwa Radio
In January, we engaged in discussions with the CEO of Ottumwa Radio to explore potential future collaborations for Ottumwa Schools students. During these talks, Ottumwa Radio opted not to submit a proposal that aligned with the new ad-revenue opportunity presented for the benefit of our students.
Introducing the Bulldog Network
The decision to transition to the Bulldog Network is driven by a vision to directly involve our students in the broadcasting process, offering them a hands-on learning experience across various production roles. This initiative, in partnership with KIIC/MCG, aims to empower students as directors, producers, graphic designers and camera operators, providing a practical understanding of the broadcasting industry. To enhance this program, we're incorporating the expertise of a professional broadcaster who will serve as a mentor to the students, providing them with invaluable guidance and support as they navigate their educational journey in broadcasting.
To underscore the positive impact of such partnerships, Joe Milledge, Owner and GM of Thunder Country KIIC-FM, shared his experience working with Oskaloosa Schools: "In our partnership with Oskaloosa Schools, the Video Production class now averages around 50 students – and some of those students have gone on to work for network sports like Fox Sports and ESPN.”
Accessing the Bulldog Network
Fans and supporters of Bulldog Sports will soon enjoy easy access to home and away broadcasts via www.bulldogsnetwork.tv, SmartTVs, and social media platforms, with the high production quality that has been admired in other communities served by KIIC/MCG. Additionally, post-season coverage will be available on KIIC-Thunder Country 96.7 as well. Our partnership promises to cover a wide array of events, beyond athletics, ensuring that fans and supporters never miss a moment of the action.
Investing in Our Future
A key feature of our new partnership is its focus on enhancing the educational and athletic experiences within our school district. Unlike our previous arrangement with Ottumwa Radio where ad revenue did not directly support our schools, the Bulldog Network will allocate a third of all ad sales income to the Ottumwa Community School District. This approach ensures that resources are directly reinvested in our students and schools, contributing to the continuous improvement of our programs and facilities.
In addition, KIIC/MCG is committing $20,000 towards the purchase of cutting-edge equipment for our video production class, ensuring our students have access to modern tools. A contribution of $60,000 from KIIC/MCG will fund a state-of-the-art video board for the new competition gyms adjacent to OHS, creating a dynamic display that will be the largest in any Iowa school district. This initiative not only highlights student achievements but also elevates the spectator experience at events.
We are committed to keeping our community informed and engaged throughout this transition. Our priority remains the enrichment and well-being of our students, and we believe the Bulldog Network represents a significant step forward in achieving that goal.
We understand change can be challenging, but we are excited about the opportunities this new partnership presents. We look forward to your continued support and enthusiasm as we embark on this new chapter in Ottumwa Bulldog broadcasting.
Landon Allen
CIO
Brandon Brooks
AD
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