COMPANY TOWN ANNEX

Signs Grow of Blockbuster-Viacom Deal Unraveling: Blockbuster Corp. Chairman H. Wayne Huizenga, in an indication that the company’s acquisition by Viacom Inc. could be on the verge of collapsing, said Blockbuster’s board may not back the $5.3-billion deal. Huizenga said directors still believe the combination of Blockbuster with Paramount Communications Inc. and Viacom is a good strategy, but he said in a letter to shareholders that, “given the current price levels of Viacom stock, there can be no assurance that the board would be able to recommend the transaction at the time of any shareholder meeting called to vote on the merger.” Viacom and Blockbuster are reportedly discussing joint ventures in cable and possibly a Blockbuster purchase of New York-based Madison Square Garden.