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SNN:  The Suncoast’s News Source

SNN:  The Suncoast’s News Source

| Laura Bell Adams |

Turning on television news can be a harrowing experience.  In a continuous news cycle where the absurd has become the norm, and political preferences decide which stories make the cut for the nightly news reel, and where tragedies—once saved for remote happenings are a daily occurrence, choosing where you devote your time and attention as a purveyor of news is extremely important. 

Trusted anchors, localized stories with a broad scope of interest, and a news station who has steadily worked out the kinks are just a few of the reasons SNN (Suncoast News Network) has become the choice of residents.

SNN is the only locally owned television station in the Sarasota-Tampa market and this has been key to its success according to Charles Cusimano, Vice President and General Manager.  His own background began in radio over 45 years ago, where he was eventually recruited to a local television station.  He came to SNN in 2015, first as a sales manager, then became the general manager.  He cites equipment upgrades, advanced technology, and better personnel hires as components of the successful SNN model.  Having grown to a staff of over 35 employees seems massive compared to the early days of SNN but Cusimano says the station still feels very much like a family operation.  

Another aspect of SNN that has made it a go-to source for news and information on the Suncoast is the round-the-clock news rotation.  You do not have to wait for the evening news to catch up with the local and national happenings of the day.  Live news blocks happening throughout the day, along with no more than two hours of recorded news has made SNN a relevant stopping point for people who want to be up-to-date on current affairs.  Anchors like Kathy Leon and chief meteorologist Justin Mosely head a list of growing talent in the SNN on-air team.  A cohesive behind-the-scenes squad rounds out a group that is excited about the direction Suncoast news is going. 

 

As for Charlie, he is also excited about the growth Sarasota is experiencing.  He loves seeing the new developments but is cautious about developers’ thoughts on long term traffic and community impact.  He finds immense enjoyment in visiting area beaches and takes in shows as often as he can at Van Wezel or in Tampa.  He thinks Sarasota offers the best of both worlds by offering a “small town feel with a big city attitude.”  He is excited about the future of SNN and the involvement they have with the Sarasota community.  From occupying office space in the old Herald Tribune building Downtown to being major supporters of Suncoast Charities for Children and the accompanying events like Thunder by the Bay and the Grand Prix Boat Races, SNN is a proud member of Sarasota.  

Locally owned and operated Suncoast News Network Besides constant news, SNN has expanded its programming to include a variety of segments such as Aging Gracefully and Natural Healing with Oriental Medicine. They can be found live on Comcast channel 6SD & 400 HD, Frontier channel 9 SD and 509 HD, Spectrum channel 20 SD and 1020 HD, Dish Network channel 39, and over the air channel 39.  

For more information, please visit www.snntv.com

Photos courtesy of SNN Facebook page.

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