The Writers Guild of America East has cut a tentative deal with ABC for its 250 news employees (newswriters, editors, desk assistants, production assistants, graphic artists, and researchers) who have been working without a contract for almost three years. The deal, which will be put to a vote for ratification on Dec. 13, comes during the fourth week of the WGA's strike over its major contract for writing on films and TV programs. The news employees' deal calls for raises of 3.5 percent annually plus a $3,700 contract bonus for full-time employees and a pro-rated bonus for those working per diem schedules or for lesser periods of time. (Variety)