By Steve Kabelowsky Contributing Columnist Published Dec 24, 2013 at 3:14 PM

The key November sweeps for area TV stations are measured in two major ways. First reported is the overall ratings, painting a picture of what shows are watched most throughout the day.

The second measurement is a breakdown of demographics, most-importantly including age and gender of the viewers.

In the latest fall sweeps, WISN-TV Ch. 12 had more adult viewers between 25 to 54 years of age to watch the 10 p.m. news than any other outlet in the market. The ABC affiliate had a 3.4 rating among the key demo, as WTMJ-TV Ch. 4 had a 2.9, WITI-TV Fox 6 a 2.7 and WDJT-TV CBS 58 a 1.7.

"We are thrilled more and more people are making WISN 12 their trusted choice for local news," said Jan Wade, president and general manager of WISN-TV.

"Every day the WISN 12 team is digging deeper on the stories that impact our viewers’ lives and our community, and we are very happy with this audience growth. I am proud of the entire staff, whose hard work consistently delivers on our mission of important local coverage."

According to the latest information from Nielsen Media Research, WISN 12 lead in primetime throughout the entire week, boosted by "Moden Family," with an 11.4 rating. The Monday Night Football airing of a Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers game in November also helped, earning a 26.4.

Three ABC primetime specials were well watched, with The CMA Awards (11.2), David Blaine: Real Or Magic (8.2), and The American Music Awards (7.8).

BLOOD DONATIONS NEEDED: Milwaukee Radio Alliance radio stations WLDB-FM B93.3, WLUM-FM 102/1, and WZTI-AM 1290 Martini Radio are hosting the 2nd annual "Day of Donations" blood drive for the American Red Cross on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Southridge Mall in Greendale.

The gifts abound for donors, including a pair of tickets to an upcoming Milwaukee Wave soccer game, an admission pass to the Milwaukee County Zoo, a movie pass from Marcus Theatres, a $20 gift certificate redeemable at any Fast Track Oil Change Center location, a coupon for a free pint of ice cream from Cedar Crest Ice Cream, and a Red Cross t-shirt. 

And donors will be eligible to win a two-night stay at Blue Harbor Resort and Spa in Sheboygan including water park passes, and a year of auto maintenance from Fast Track Oil Change Centers, according to the release.

FM 102/1’s Jacent Jackson will be at the donation drive from 9 to 11 a.m., 1290 Martini Radio and B93.3 host Carol Vonn will be there from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and B93.3’s Jane Matenaer be on-hand from 1 to 3 p.m. 

Brad Beach, the Milwaukee Wave mascot, is also scheduled to appear.

To schedule a time to donate, visit redcrossblood.org, call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767), or walk in at Southridge Mall on the second floor near Macy’s.  All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.  A blood donor card or valid driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Steve Kabelowsky Contributing Columnist

Media is bombarding us everywhere.

Instead of sheltering his brain from the onslaught, Steve embraces the news stories, entertainment, billboards, blogs, talk shows and everything in between.

The former writer, editor and producer in TV, radio, Web and newspapers, will be talking about what media does in our community and how it shapes who we are and what we do.