Infomercials Come First

When the Genie Bra takes over the local news: Sagging TV station gets a littlesupport

Are ads for the Genie Bra better viewing than the local news?

Crime reports, traffic, weather ... bra strap relief. That’s what you might get if you watch the ABC television affiliate at 7 p.m. in the Providence-New Bedford area, which also broadcasts into posh Martha’s Vineyard real estate.

MediaBistro’s TVSpy reported that viewers who tuned in Tuesday night expecting to see their local anchors deliver the usual nightly news, instead were presented news of a cure for underwires that dig and “specially designed magic pouches” that add a little oomph.

No, this is not an early April Fools' joke.

Providence’s WLNE, otherwise known as ABC6, the station that is “Honest, Fair, Everywhere” has not gotten kinky. Rather, it’s apparently gotten desperate.

The struggling station is up for sale and is facing an auction on March 22. In an unheard of move, it is replacing the news time slot (whenever it can be sold, that is) with infomercials, beginning with what must have been the ultimate in degradation to its news journalists, a Genie Miracle Bra infomercial.

Oh, the horror!

A call to Houston’s ABC affiliate, KTRK Ch. 13, to see what the station thought of such a programming decision resulted in the expected: A spokesperson declined to comment.

Having been a spinmeister myself for both television and radio in the past, I can’t imagine having to deal with this. Surely, for all the other ABC affiliated stations in the country this act by the Providence station would be like having an immediate family member turn into a leper.

You just don’t talk about it.

WLNE news director Dan Fabrizio confirmed to TVSpy that the bra infomercial did air, but he emphasized that the evening newscast is not canceled. “The 7 p.m. newscast was developed as an alternative to expensive syndication in prime access. From time to time, the station sells that time period,” Fabrizio said.

Their newscast is just a backup?

Color his face red.

Interestingly, whoever buys the station might not be getting an ABC station. ABC’s affiliation agreement with WLNE expires at the end of March and “ABC has the right to approve, in its sole discretion, any operator of the station.”

Maybe the Genie Bra people would be interested in owning it. It does needs a miracle.

No, it's not a Saturday Night Live parody. Here's a snippet of the Genie Bra infomercial:

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RODEO ROYALTY

Bun B debuts exclusive Western streetwear collab at RodeoHouston

Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

Bun B takes the RodeoHouston stage in style, debuting an exclusive Western streetwear collab with Purple Brand and Crown Royal.

Houston's rodeo scene got a hefty dose of Western-meets-streetwear flair as Bun B took the RodeoHouston stage in style during his highly anticipated concert on March 7. Since 2022, the rap icon has been turning heads with custom outfits styled by Luke Cosby, co-founder of Purple Brand. But this year, some of Bun B's looks weren't just exclusive; they inspired his capsule collection with Purple Brand and Crown Royal, making his performance a combination of music, fashion, and culture.

"Performing at the Rodeo is an honor, and I love every aspect of creating that show. I look forward to my on-stage look every year, and trust Purple will create something that I love," Bun B shared in a statement. "Being able to bring two brands I respect together to form this unique look and create a collection inspired by those looks, made this Rodeo even more special."

The capsule collection, available at Purple Brand's Galleria boutique and online, consists of three pieces, including the Crown Royal x Purple Brand Jeff Hamilton Varsity Jacket, Crown Royal x Purple Brand Bun B Signature Poncho, and Crown Royal x Purple Brand Graphic Tee. According to Cosby, every detail was carefully curated for a one-of-a-kind look. Premium wool, leather accents, and bold embellishments blend rich texture with modern streetwear elements.

The collection is available online and in Purple Brand's Galleria boutique. Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

"The collection was heavily inspired by Crown Royal and Bun B himself, his dynamic stage presence, his legacy in Houston, and the Western aesthetic that defines the Rodeo," Cosby tells CultureMap. "We took cues from classic rodeo fashion, Crown Royal branding and colors. The poncho, for example, is a recreation of the standout piece Bun wore on stage last year, blending tradition with contemporary design. Each piece reflects Houston's culture while feeling fresh and elevated."

Net proceeds from the collection and other events in the Crown Royal Saloon & Showroom during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will be donated to Soldiers' Angels' LA Wildfire Relief Fund, supporting fire relief efforts for veterans in the Los Angeles area.

The Crown Royal x Purple Brand collab features luxe textures, bold embellishments, and undeniable Houston energy.Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

"As a long-time sponsor of the RodeoHouston, it was important to elevate our presence by extending our partnership to leaders in the community. Bun B is a Houston legend. His presence at RodeoHouston and annual Birthday Bonanza is a highly anticipated moment that unites the city," Hadley Schafer, vice president of Crown Royal, tells CultureMap." In our second year partnering with Bun B, we are thrilled to evolve our partnership in a way that pays homage to rodeo tradition and the Houston community."

Photo by BFA for Crown Royal

Bun B takes the RodeoHouston stage in style, debuting an exclusive Western streetwear collab with Purple Brand and Crown Royal.

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