Journal Communications Inc. — the Milwaukee-based media company that has agreed to pay Landmark Media Enterprises $215 million for WTVF NewsChannel 5 Network — is highlighted by a relatively quick rise to prominence with its television station portfolio.

For example, the publicly traded JCI (Ticker: JRN) formed in 1972 and bought it first station, KTNV-TV in Las Vegas, in 1979. Another acquisition did not follow until 1985 and then not again until 1999. But since 2002, Journal has undertaken an assertive acquisition path, purchasing 10 TV stations in 10 years, including WTVF.

Of note, Journal’s board comprises folks with interesting backgrounds. David Drury, a Brit, is a professional cricket player. Ellen Siminoff was a founding executive and senior vice president of Yahoo. Jonathan Newcomb, a senior advisor with Coady Diemar Partners, is a decorated veteran of the Viet Nam War. And Jeanette Tulley is president and CEO of Radiovisa Corp., a Spanish-language radio company. 

Steven J. Smith serves as Journal’s board chair and CEO. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, Smith’s total calculated compensation in fiscal year 2011 was approximately $2.2 million.