Advarion Incorporated

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 6, 2002

Contact: Hon. Michael Berry

713.247.2006

michael.berry@cityofhouston.net

VIEWER-LED TASK FORCE TO HELP PROMOTE HOUSTON MEDICAL

New Website to be Launched Tomorrow,

Offering Fans a Chance to Express Support for Critically Acclaimed ABC Series

Houston, Texas -- While the ABC network ponders the fate of Houston Medical -- which aired for six episodes this summer to critical acclaim and solid ratings -- a Houston-based group of community and business leaders tomorrow will announce the launching of a website to help promote the show.

The "Save Houston Medical Task Force" will conduct a press conference tomorrow at Hermann Memorial Hospital, the site where the reality TV show is filmed, and announce the address of their website.

"ABC demonstrated tremendous courage in airing Houston Medical for a planned six-episode run this summer," said Houston City Councilman Michael Berry, who chairs the task force. "If you look at the numbers, it's clear that a growing national audience base has responded to the real-life heroes who came into our lives thanks to this series -- and we want to respond, in turn, to this viewer-led development by giving fans across the country a place where they can express their support for compelling, quality television. This is also an opportunity for the people of the City of Houston to demonstrate our support for this groundbreaking series."

In just six episodes this summer, against tough competition, Houston Medical demonstrated growing national viewership and strong ratings. Some 7.1 million people watched episode six, for example, which also produced the network's highest summer ratings among women 18-34 in four years, as well as the network's best summer results among adults 18-49, both male and female, in two years.

ABC and New Screen Concepts, Connecticut-based producers of the show, are currently discussing whether the show will be picked up. A decision is expected in the next few weeks.

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