Los Angeles (Jan. 6, 2009) – ABC Radio Networks kicks off its new agreement with Dees Entertainment this weekend as the syndication representative of “The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40.” The development agreement was recently signed by ABC Radio Networks and Dees Entertainment, the programming company owned by entertainment personality Rick Dees. Together they will work to develop and distribute original entertainment content targeting key audiences.

“Rick is one of the most respected talents in radio and we’re thrilled to add his knowledge and keen understanding of the young-end audience to our portfolio,” said Carl Anderson, Senior Vice President for Programming and Distribution. “He has built an illustrious career rooted in his ability to connect with listeners. His experience and wide ranging success will be a strong advantage for our platforms.”

The partnership will create a variety of contemporary productions that will reach across multiple radio formats. The network will also grow its great affiliate base.

“My friends at ABC Radio Networks have the best team in place to maximize new opportunities with Dees Entertainment,” said Rick Dees. "I am very excited about returning home to ABC Radio and its creative programming culture. Our team has developed new short-form and long-form programs for immediate distribution, plus original video that attracts a new audience for 2009 and beyond. In other words, we’re ready for ABC…Dees!”

About Dees Entertainment
Dees Entertainment provides original broadcast and Internet programming. Produced with a focus on quality, every product including “The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40” and RICK.COM, emanate from Rick Dees' state-of-the-art studios in Burbank. It operates DDN, an internet-based entertainment player and DDN Mobile, a text messaging platform. Dees Entertainment has a partnership with Emmis Communications to produce “Rick Dees in the Morning,” 5 - 10 on KMVN 93.9 Los Angeles.

About ABC Radio Networks
ABC Radio Networks has 4,400 affiliate radio stations reaching more than 105 million listeners in the 12+ demographic each week. Programs and services include ABC News Radio, Paul Harvey News and Comment, The Sean Hannity Show, and The Tom Joyner Morning Show. Other ABC services include digital platforms with online interactive advertising, streaming audio and podcasts, ABC Sports Radio, ESPN Radio and ABC Radio Networks en Español.