Memo of 6/14/67: Chet Campbell to Bud Prather

Memo of Chet Campbell to Bud Prather: 6/14/67

Curator's note: Chet Campbell was WMAQ-TV's press manager. W. C. "Bud" Prather was the station manager.

Following is a review of the 20th anniversary ideas which were discussed at our meeting June 13.

1). The 20th Anniversary Booklet. We are definitely committed for this project and Johnny Gibbs has been given background material and suggestions to help him get started on the writing end of the project. It is agreed that there will be two editions of the booklet; one a quality hard cover edition in a limited number for our own people and a list of VIPs, and a second soft cover for a much wider distribution. Distribution of either of the editions should include schools and libraries. The VIP copies will be personally inscribed to the recipients.

2). We will attempt to develop a special seal in connection with the stations anniversary. It would be utilized in connection with the Illinois sesquicentennial commemorative seal, creating a medallion with two sides which could be used in various ways. Suggestions include key chains and other souvenirs, for instance as gifts for those attending station functions. We will contact the Illinois Sesquicentennial Commission for a copy of their seal. The idea of a seal can be extended to our on-air and newspaper promotion. It would be hoped that a design, combining both, would be developed as a 20th anniversary symbol to be used for the entire year. In addition, we will consider producing a low-cost key ring using both seals reproduced in metal or plastic as a station giveaway. A more costly medallion could be created as a souvenir to a limited VIP list.

3). It was agreed to drop any audience contest ideas in connection with the anniversary.

4). Chicago origination of a network show. It was agreed that we would solicit such cooperation, but that no offer of financial underwriting to any show would be made by Channel 5. A letter will be drafted to Mr. Welpott pointing out the state and station anniversaries and recommending that perhaps the Tonight or Today shows originate from Chicago to salute Illinois and WMAQ-TV.

5). It is hoped by 1968, with the recapture of the RCA space, regular studio tours will be reinstated. If so, it is recommended that a 20th anniversary display be created, using photos, etc., in the 20th floor lobby. We also should consider requesting Mart lobby space for this display.

6). We will create special station ID's based on the anniversary and hopefully will have one for each month of the year 1968. We will solicit ideas from our graphics department.

7). We should solicit, as soon as possible, a proclamation from the Mayor and/or city council saluting the 20th anniversary of WMAQ-TV. It was pointed out that WGN-TV also will be celebrating 20 years in 1968 and we should make every effort to get our pitch in first.

8). A special local program in connection with the 20th anniversary, perhaps based upon the role of Channel 5 as a pioneer in early television programing, should be considered.

9). In connection with the annual employee dinner dance in the spring of 1968, it should be based on the anniversary theme. Appropriate decorations or displays should be considered by the dinner dance committee We also should consider a similar theme for the 1963 Spring Spree. In connection with the employee affair, we will plan to invite retired and former employees and talent employed by Channel 5 over the past 20 years.

The promotion department will coordinate all anniversary activities, Any additional suggestions or ideas are most welcome from any source. I suggest that we set another meeting no later than August 1 for a progress report.