Indian Country TV Taps Media Veterans

NEW YORK -- Ray Halbritter, Publisher, has announced the appointment of two media industry veterans to Indian Country Today Media Network, a new multi-media platform created for the Native American community

Suzanne Sobel will serve as the Managing Director. She has spent her career in media and publishing, most recently working with her firm for clients such as The French Culinary Institute, The Richline Group, a Berkshire Hathaway company, and most recently, the Oneida Indian Nation.

Sobel joined Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia in 1991 and served in various roles throughout her tenure, including Executive Vice President of Ad Sales and Marketing. She played an integral role in the launching of multiple magazines, television shows and the digital properties. "I'm delighted that Suzanne has agreed to oversee Indian Country Today Media Network. Her enthusiasm paired with her experience and success as one of the team that launched Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia is invaluable," said Halbritter.

Christopher Napolitano will serve as Creative Director. Most recently he served as Editor at Large for Playboy magazine, after a five-year tenure as Editorial Director. Napolitano spent over 20 years at the magazine, serving in many different roles. As Editorial Director he published several award-winning literary figures and garnered the magazine its first National Magazine Award nomination in 15 years. "Chris brings over 20 years of success and experience in the media and publishing industry to Indian Country Today Media Network," said Halbritter. "His media savvy and creativity have been instrumental in the evolution of the brand."

Sobel and Napolitano have been working with Halbritter over the last year to execute his vision for Indian Country Today Media Network. "Working with Ray and everyone at the Nation has been an amazing experience. The dedication and commitment that Ray has shown to this business is unwavering. His willingness to explore new frontiers and create a platform to help further his community is inspiring," said Sobel.

More about Indian Country Today Media Network:
The fully-developed Indian Country Today Media Network is the premier portal for Indian country and the go-to destination for all things indigenous. The various platforms, launching January 14, will include www.Indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com and a weekly magazine, This Week From Indian Country Today. There are also plans in development to launch syndicated and online radio shows. "This is also a destination for everyone that is interested in learning more. Not only is this a great platform for Native Americans but it's also an opportunity for advertisers to reach one of the fastest growing populations in the US that had a projected buying power of over $67 billion in 2010,"* said Halbritter.

The website and magazine will provide essential news and information from Indian country, featuring new artists and cultural highlights, and give life to the most trenchant voices in the national community. The network will also offer online services in the areas of education, business and events.

An advisory board of leading and prominent members of the Nations—including tribal leaders, educators, entrepreneurs and government officials—will help guide the policy of Indian Country Today Media Network, as will Op Ed Editor Ray Cook and Washington D.C. Bureau Chief Rob Capriccioso. Those who have already accepted places on the board include Dr. José Barreiro, Mark Trahant, Duane Champagne, and expert in Native American affairs, Carole Goldberg. Further announcements in all areas will be forthcoming.
Ray Halbritter is also Oneida Nation Representative and CEO of Oneida Nation Enterprises which owns Indian Country Today Media Network.
*Humphreys, Jeffrey M. The Multicultural Economy 2010. The University of Georgia; Selig Center for Economic Growth.