Expanding Our Horizons

In August, Franklin News Foundation announced the acquisition of Advanced Digital Media (ADM), operators of BlueRoomStream.com – often referred to as the “C-SPAN of Illinois.”

This acquisition marked a step not only forward, but outward, as we expand into a new horizon of the news industry.

ADM has built a 20-year reputation for providing dependable, unbiased, and unedited streaming coverage to its customers in Illinois and the television industry at large. It is this reputation – like The Center Square’s – that has earned them exclusive streaming access to meetings, conferences, and hearings on both sides of the political aisle.

By joining forces with ADM, Franklin News Foundation has assumed the responsibility of fostering the future growth and development of this trusted platform - reaching more audiences inside Illinois and nationally.

This is both a victory and responsibility we share with you, our supporters.

The acquisition further strengthens Franklin’s commitment to delivering reliable news coverage and expands its media offerings. Franklin now has the ability to distribute high-value video content on TheCenterSquare.com as well as to newspapers, radio, and television ensuring as many taxpayers as possible have first-hand access to legislative activity.

Between September and November alone, we livestreamed five events directly on TheCenterSquare.com, including President Biden’s impeachment inquiry hearing, the U.S. Congressional hearing on violent crime in Chicago, and Illinois’ veto session. This coverage provided more than 9,000 taxpayers with direct access to key issues.

There lives the real value of this streaming service - the direct window it gives into legislative action, allowing taxpayers to see for themselves how their elected officials are responding to the topics that matter most to them.

And, with your continued partnership, we will have the resources to expand this coverage. Beginning in 2024, we will expand this exclusive streaming coverage to other key states.

Through this investment, we will not only capture images and videos, but also distribute this content across our digital platforms and social media sites.

The acquisition of ADM represents a significant step made possible only through your support. Adding this service builds a powerful differentiation that further distances The Center Square newswire from the growing field of competitors who are jumping into non-profit news at the national, state, and local levels - some of whom are even using the footage we provide.

Together, you and I will continue expanding Franklin’s reach and influence within the media landscape and serving state taxpayers with the unparalleled transparency this livestream coverage offers.

Thank you for your partnership.