Azteca America, a growing U.S.-based Hispanic network, has announced a strong commitment to local broadcasters at its recent West Coast upfront. It also has future plans for local news programming in
10 news markets. Said Jorge Jaidar, general manager of Azteca 54. "We are committed to local news and offer a unique combination of top local news with a hemispheric view. New musical shows include
"Premio de la Gente" and "Billboard Regional Latino Especial." Network execs emphasized national coverage gains in the past year, increasing the network's station base by 27% to 57 affiliated
stations. Also lauded was a beefed up LA sales force and new programs produced in Mexico and the U.S.