CTV Atlantic’s Treasured Holiday Tradition Returns: The 55th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON Airs Saturday, Dec. 1

HALIFAX (November 21, 2018) – CTV Atlantic prepares for a non-stop kitchen party during its 55^th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON, airing Saturday, Dec. 1 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. AT on CTV. Live coverage of the viewer-favourite holiday event is also available throughout the day on CTVAtlantic.ca and on the CTV and CTV News apps. CTV Atlantic celebrates the 55^th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON, the station’s longest-standing annual holiday tradition, uniting Maritimers in the spirit of giving with those in need in their communities. This unique seven-hour special broadcast features an animated mix of CTV Atlantic personalities and performances from an impressive roster of Maritime musicians across all three provinces. Viewers are invited to extend their support by making a donation during the live broadcast on Saturday, Dec. 1. “CHRISTMAS DADDIES turns 55 this year and it’s absolutely incredible to see the continuous support we receive from viewers, performers, and CTV staff alike,” said Trent McGrath, Vice-President and General Manager, CTV Atlantic. “We’re blown away by the time and funds volunteers have donated to this great cause over the years, and we’re proud that CTV Atlantic has been able to help families in need across the Maritimes for more than five decades.” One of the most anticipated annual charitable fundraising initiatives in the region, the 55^th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON is led by the team of CTV Atlantic anchors, hosts, and reporters who look forward to fostering holiday spirit, fun, and excitement viewers expect from the popular CHRISTMAS DADDIES program. Hosting this year in Halifax are CTV Atlantic anchors Steve Murphy, Maria Panopalis and Jayson Baxter, alongside meteorologist Kalin Mitchell. They are joined by CTV NEWS AT 5 reporters Heidi Petracek and Ana Almeida, while CTV MORNING LIVE host Cyril Lunney and reporters Jonathan MacInnis, Kate Walker, and Laura Lyall co-host from the CTV studio in Moncton, N.B. CTV NATIONAL NEWS Chief Anchor and Senior Editor Lisa LaFlamme joins the broadcast as a special guest contributor this year, hosting from Cape Breton alongside CTV alumnus Jeff Hutcheson and CTV Atlantic’s Heather Butts, Kyle Moore, and Ryan MacDonald. Celebrated comedian Jimmy the Janitor hosts in Charlottetown. Leading the sound from Sydney is musical director Fred Lavery, joined by a captivating collection of musicians including Matt Minglewood, Bruce Guthro, The Men Of The Deeps, Stephanie Beaumont, Laurel Martell, High Society, and The Privateers. The stage in Moncton, N.B. features local musicians including Terry Whalen, The Junior Jills, and Macy Daisy Rose Jenkins. Meanwhile, the Confederation Centre for the Arts stage in Charlottetown hosts several notable artists, including Tara MacLean performing a duet with Adam Brazier and Cavendish Beach Music Festival performers Ava & Lily Rashed. In addition, the 55th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON celebrates homegrown talent, featuring performances by local school choirs and up-and-coming musicians throughout the show. Throughout the 55^th ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON, Bell Media and Bell Aliant employees and retirees will be standing by to accept donations over the phone. Viewers can call 1-844-400-1964, with phone lines opening at 10:30 a.m. AT. In addition, financial donations can be made online at ChristmasDaddies.org, as well as at any RBC branch across the Maritimes and at Credit Unions in Cape Breton. “Bell Aliant is proud to continue its long history of supporting the CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON,” said Glen LeBlanc, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, BCE, and Bell’s Vice Chair, Atlantic. “Our employees and retirees are honoured to be a part of this important cause that helps brighten the holiday season for families across the region who need a little extra help.” The ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DADDIES TELETHON has raised more than $31 million over the course of its 55 years, with funds supplying gifts and food for Maritime families and their children during the holiday season. CTV Atlantic’s partnership with The Salvation Army provides more than 18,000 Maritime children and parents with toys and gifts at Christmas each year. All financial donations are redistributed within their originating geographic area, allowing viewers to donate to neighbours within their own communities. CTV donates airtime, technical equipment, and resources for the event, while employees, families, and friends volunteer their time to continue the program’s success.