WSJV, meanwhile, will continue to run its Elkhart-based station with two employees. It will only continue to offer Heroes & Icons network, which offers a mix of classic shows.
A major shake-up, meanwhile, is anticipated for WSJV employees. Some are expected to transfer to other television stations owned by the Quincy, Ill.-based parent company, Oakley said, while others will lose their jobs. "We will be talking with many of our employees about opportunities at our other stations throughout our company, and we'll also be talking with them about severance," he said.
Some WSJV employees are expected to be hired by Sinclair, which will operate a second news operation under the Fox affiliate. A call was not returned Monday by John Nizamis, general manger of WSBT.
Quincy's decision to no longer cover local news in the region's 10-county primary market comes as there is "large consolidation going on" in the industry, Oakley said. "We have thoroughly enjoyed our opportunity to be involved in the Michiana region for over 40 years and will continue to operate a station, but in a far different way. It's a unique set of circumstances that brought us to this decision."
