Why your local channel isn't in HD and who to complain to!

[noneroy]

Why isn’t my local channel available in HD from D*?

Good question! It’s probably because your ‘local’ TV channel is actually owned by a parent corporation. The more channels you own, the more leverage you can have in demanding large sums of money to be carried by a provider (D*). That or D* is trying to low-ball these companies. Either way, as a D* subscriber, you're caught in the middle. Complaining to local stations hasn't seemed to help, but maybe complaining to their parent company will get someone's attention. I’ve done a little research and though I’d at least provide some information on who to complain to besides D*.

So here we go:

LIN TV:

URL: http://www.lintv.com

Contact info:

401-454-2880
1 Richmond Square
Providence, RI

HD Channels Not Carried:
Albuquerque - KRQE (CBS)
Austin - KXAN (NBC)
Buffalo - WIVB (CBS)
Grand Rapids - WOOD (NBC)
Green Bay - WLUK (FOX)
Hartford – WTNH (ABC)
Indianapolis - WISH (CBS)
Providence - WPRI (CBS)
Providence - WNAC (FOX)

HD Channels Carried:
None

Montecito Broadcast Group
URL: http://montecitobroadcast.com - Seems to be down

Contact Info:
559 San Ysidro Rd # I
Montecito, CA 93108
(805) 969-9278

HD channels not carried:
Portland, OR - KOIN (CBS)

HD channels Carried
None


Weigel Broadcasting
URL: http://www.wciu.com/

Contact Info:
26 N Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60661
(312) 705-2600

HD channels not carried:
Milwaukee - WDJT (CBS)

HD channels Carried
None

[litzdog911]

Excellent information. Thank you!

[Elistan98]

any info about columbus oh

[carl6]

Using the information you provided, I sent the following email to both Fisher Communications, and Tribune.

"To whom it may concern:

I am writing to [the Tribune Broadcasting Company][Fisher Communications] in regards to the fact that [Fox][ABC] programming in my local market (Seattle/Tacoma) is not carried on DirecTV in high definition. As one customer in that market I feel that it is very important for you to realize that for whatever reasons [Fox][KOMO] is not carried in High Definition, you are losing viewers. I believe that if this situation is not corrected very soon, it will be appropriate to start contacting your advertisers to insure that they are aware their advertising dollars could be more effectively spent with broadcasters who properly support all media distributors."

I would encourage all forum members who do not have all HD channels available to send a similar correspondence.

Carl

[noneroy]

any info about columbus oh

I should have clarified, this is only for 'the big four.' I didn't get into CW because it looks like MOST markets don't have it and it could be other issues keeping those from going up....

[Earl Bonovich]

Fantastic detail and research

[pgfitzgerald]

The New York Times Company is selling WREG (and the rest of their TV stations).

I doubt very seriously compaining to NYT will do any good.

Paul

P.S. Good post though! :)

[Greg Bimson]

As far as Tribune goes, I could swear that they own a large chunk of major affilates in the CW Network. You think maybe they are trying to gain carriage of the CW feeds as well as the four FOX feeds listed above? After all, I think the Philly CW is owned by CBS, and is available.

[bonscott87]

The CW in many market is just a digital subchannel like it is in my market. In other words the only way you'll get it is via OTA or maybe (and a big maybe) cable.

[TAG4]

I want CBS 58(MILWAUKEE WI) in HD now!
Thanks for the info about who to contact!
The local HD page milwaukeehdtv.org in its forum has the following quote from a manager from the local channel's office:

At this time it does not appear that DirecTv has an interest in our HD programming.

Jim Hall
General Manager
WDJT-TV A CBS Affiliate
WMLW - Means Milwaukee
WYTU & Telemundo Wisconsin

This is one of the most out of touch with reality statements I have ever heard. We in Milwaukee went through this when D first started with locals in STD DEF. Now history is repeating itself.

It really amazes me that a station would not try to work to provide its programming to the residents of that city.

I challenge MR. HALL to get this impasse resolved ASAP. (LSU V UT IS IN ONE WEEK and I want to watch in HD from the satellite.

The local feed usually breaks up in the afternoon and it is unrealiable.

Thanks for letting me rant
Dr. Thomas A. Garland
Milwaukee, WI

[Greg Bimson]

The CW in many market is just a digital subchannel like it is in my market. In other words the only way you'll get it is via OTA or maybe (and a big maybe) cable.OK. But I think what I am saying is misunderstood.

Tribune's four FOX channels aren't available in HD; the ones listed in the first post. These would be these FOX stations:

Seattle - KCPQ (FOX)
Sacramento - KTXL (FOX)
Hartford - WTIC (FOX)
Indianapolis - WXIN (FOX)

So, Tribune is still a major player in broadcasting. Tribune also owns these CW affiliates (unless noted in parentheses), and the market ranks are the first number:

1. New York City WPIX
2. Los Angeles KTLA
3. Chicago WGN
4. Philadelphia WPHL (MyNetworkTV affiliate)
6. Dallas - Fort Worth KDAF
7. Boston, MA WLVI
8. Washington, D.C. WDCW
10. Houston KHCW
14. Tacoma - Seattle KMYQ (MyNetworkTV affiliate)
16. Miami - Fort Lauderdale WSFL
18. Denver KWGN
21. St. Louis KPLR
23. Portland, OR KRCW
25. Indianapolis, IN WTTV
27. San Diego KSWB
28. Hartford - New Haven, CT WTXX
39. Grand Rapids WXMI 17 (Fox affiliate, could be why Grand Rapids is missing)
41. York-Harrisburg-Lancaster-Lebanon, PA WPMT 43 1997 Fox
54. New Orleans WGNO (ABC affiliate)
54. New Orleans WNOL
56. Albany-Troy, NY WCWN

Tribune wants not only the four affiliates from the original list, they also want the list of 21 affiliates I just provided up and available to subscribers. After all, if DirecTV can see their way to have the CW available in Philadelphia (owned by CBS) and the MyNetworkTV available in the DC area (owned by FOX), then why wouldn't Tribune want all of their properties up and available to subscribers?

[Newshawk]

I wonder if someone could do some research on the ownership of the stations in the upcoming markets so we could get ahead of the curve in making sure all the networks are covered?

[Donnie Byrd]

I wonder if someone could do some research on the ownership of the stations in the upcoming markets so we could get ahead of the curve in making sure all the networks are covered?


DMA #42 Norfolk/Newport News, Va.


3 (CBS) WTKR----New York Times Company.

10 (NBC) WAVY---LIN Broadcasting

13 (ABC) WVEC---Belo Corporation.

15 (Ind) WHRO---Hampton Roads Educational Telecommunications Association

27 (CW) WGNT---CBS Corp.

33 (MNT) WTVZ---Sinclair Broadcast Group.

43 (FOX) WVBT---LIN Broadcasting

49 (PAX) i-TV--- ION Media Networks

[agreer]

LINs web site is down...I want to send them a note about WLFI Lafayette In CBS and ask why all their other properties can be on DBS but not that one...

[noneroy]

LIN's site is back up.

Once the new HD channels go online, I'll update my post with new information for them (but I want to see who is and is not added). Also, if any of this info changes, please let me know. I'd hate to keep one of these 'fine' companies on the wall of shame incorrectly.... :D

[GeorgeLV]

LIN's site is back up.

Once the new HD channels go online, I'll update my post with new information for them (but I want to see who is and is not added). Also, if any of this info changes, please let me know. I'd hate to keep one of these 'fine' companies on the wall of shame incorrectly.... :D

KVBC (Sunbelt) has been added to Las Vegas HD locals.

[packfan909]

If you want some information regarding the Tribune gaps in coverage, read the attached thread:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=66412&highlight=fox40

Pay specific attention to the posts by Radio Enginerd.

[ajwillys]

Regarding Capitol Broadcasting Corp in Raleigh, I've contacted them a number of times regarding this and I always get the same, pre-canned answer:

WRAL, WRAZ, and DirecTV are still in negotiations to allow DirecTV to
distribute the WRAL and WRAZ HD programming streams. The current
stumbling block is that we want every viewer in our entire 22-county
television market to be able to see our HD signals. Unfortunately,
DirecTV has offered to distribute the HD signals to only about 75% of
the market. That is unacceptable to us since the FCC has licensed our
station to serve the entire market -- not 75% of it.

We will continue to negotiate in good faith with DirecTV and hope for a
speedy resolution. DirecTV says it is launching new satellites that
will help alleviate this problem in coming months, and we look forward
to this technical resolution becoming a reality. We appreciate your
patience.

Best regards,
John Harris
WRAL

One time, I responded with this:
As I'm sure you are aware, currently you are serving 0% of the market instead of the 75% that you say is unacceptable.....

To which they responded again with...
We’re providing a stunningly beautiful HD picture to thousands of people via Time Warner and those with over-the-air receivers.. DirecTV is the problem in this equation…


In other words, CBS is blaming Directv and Directv is blaming CBC.

[joe42]

I live in the Sherman, TX/Ada-Ok viewing area. Dish Network carries my local channels but *thanks* to the court order by the judge ABC is going to be gone because there's no ABC locally - only through Distant Networks.

Directtv I can get ABC out of NY or LA but I can't get locals. I'd have to go back to an antennae. The reception for an antennae is horrible. Who do I need to talk to about juat adding regular local progamming from my area to Directtv or where can I find a list of plain and simple local DMA markets being added?

If they added them I'd switch over in a heart beat.

[tejohnson]

Here is another:

Gray Television, Inc.

URL: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=104784&p=irol-operations

Contact Info:

Executive Offices:
4370 Peachtree Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30319
(404) 504-9828

Administrative Offices:
126 N. Washington Street
Albany, GA 31701
(229) 888-9390

[hdgreg]

Don't see why PBS is not up in HD. I'm in San Francisco.

[Greg Bimson]

Because there isn't a single PBS in HD available yet on DirecTV.

There could be a regulatory reason. Because DirecTV must negotiate for both the SD and HD feeds from the local channels, most PBS stations are available because of must-carry. There hasn't been a law for must-carry in HD, so it makes it a little difficult to carry these stations.

Edit: Why was Gray Television added to this list? I was unaware of any issues with Gray Television.

[noneroy]

Sorry for the lag. Holidays and all....

I haven't added Gray yet because I don't know which channels of theirs D* is not offering. Please let me know.

Also, I'm going to update with the new markets D* added soon (if there are 'gaps' in coverage).

[tejohnson]

Sorry for the lag. Holidays and all....

I haven't added Gray yet because I don't know which channels of theirs D* is not offering. Please let me know.

Also, I'm going to update with the new markets D* added soon (if there are 'gaps' in coverage).


WTAP (small market tho)

[Greg Bimson]

WTAP? This thread is for the new HD local channels being carried by DirecTV, and those companies that cannot come to terms with DirecTV. Gray Television is not one of these companies that have not come to terms with DirecTV; WTAP isn't carried yet because DirecTV doesn't have the Parkersburg market available yet.

[jasonblair]

So who do I complain to in order to get my local NBC and Fox affiliate to convert their digital broadcast from 480i to HD? (WTWO - NBC 2 and WFXW - Fox 38 in Terre Haute, Indiana) DirecTV can't carry them in HD if the affiliates are 480i

[noneroy]

So who do I complain to in order to get my local NBC and Fox affiliate to convert their digital broadcast from 480i to HD? (WTWO - NBC 2 and WFXW - Fox 38 in Terre Haute, Indiana) DirecTV can't carry them in HD if the affiliates are 480i

The resolution your TV station broadcasts in is up to the station itself. Terre Haute, being the small market it is, probably wont be moving up to 1080i/720p until they have to. Even then, it will be even longer before D* would add their HD signals to their lineup. However, you might be able to pull down Indy locals OTA. Your best bet will probably be getting the locals in HD OTA when they are offered.

But, yeah. Your complaint needs to go to your local broadcast stations (or their parent companies). Sorry. :(

[noneroy]

Hey guys. For some reason I cannot edit my original post to update it. Not sure why. The reason i need to update it is that Tribune and D* have reached an agreement and now FOX is in HD in the Indy Market. (Possibly more markets, given the parent company situation). I'd like to remove at least part of them from the wall of shame!

Now...if only LIN could get it together....I'd have the big 4 in HD.....

I guess it's a good thing I don't watch any shows on CBS! :)

[tmwes]

Hey guys. For some reason I cannot edit my original post to update it. Not sure why. The reason i need to update it is that Tribune and D* have reached an agreement and now FOX is in HD in the Indy Market. (Possibly more markets, given the parent company situation). I'd like to remove at least part of them from the wall of shame!

Now...if only LIN could get it together....I'd have the big 4 in HD.....

I guess it's a good thing I don't watch any shows on CBS! :)

Just back from the Pats game and catching the end of the Cowboys/Giants game, and it appears Fox 61 in Hartford (Tribine) is in HD as well. Nothing on the guide for future shows indicates HD, but I have to think this is a good sign. Especially since it happened before 24 starts!

And I'm in the same boat RE: Lin...they own my local ABC, and are my last remaining non HD local.

[RAD]

Has anyone received a response to a query to LIN corporate? I got a response from a local station:

Our parent company, LIN Television, strongly believes that subscriber fees paid to broadcasters by cable/sat providers are important to our long-term survival. Cable/sat providers currently pay those fees to all program providers except local broadcasters. LIN is committed to withholding authorization to carry the HD signals until agreements can be reached with these entities.

[noneroy]

Has anyone received a response to a query to LIN corporate? I got a response from a local station:

Our parent company, LIN Television, strongly believes that subscriber fees paid to broadcasters by cable/sat providers are important to our long-term survival. Cable/sat providers currently pay those fees to all program providers except local broadcasters. LIN is committed to withholding authorization to carry the HD signals until agreements can be reached with these entities.

That's funny. I strongly believe in withholding viewership of crappy TV stations whose only compelling content are football games. I'm not too broken up about not having CBS since I don't watch any of their TV shows and I have NFL-ST/SF which seems to get around this issue....

But seriously LIN.....you own a crappy station in a backwater town...how much money do you expect?

[tbackus]

Any idea on who to contact about HD programming in Wichita, KS??

[harsh]

Our parent company, LIN Television, strongly believes that subscriber fees paid to broadcasters by cable/sat providers are important to our long-term survival. Cable/sat providers currently pay those fees to all program providers except local broadcasters.This is a hoot. Next thing, they'll want their OTA viewers to buy subscriptions.

[bonscott87]

Any idea on who to contact about HD programming in Wichita, KS??

Check out your cities HD locals thread on AVS. That would be the best place to start. Click the link in my sig.

[Ed Campbell]

For the 2nd time, now, I sat with an installer as we looked through the transponders to see how many local HD casts were actually in test with D*. 2 out of 4.

But, the incompetent louts down in Albuquerque include an NBC outlet whose OTA HD has been down for days -- and a CBS outlet still holding up Comcast for years. The only crew in our region with smarts and capability is PBS and D* won't be offering them as an HD local -- till who knows?

[chrisfowler99]

Has anyone received a response to a query to LIN corporate? I got a response from a local station:

Our parent company, LIN Television, strongly believes that subscriber fees paid to broadcasters by cable/sat providers are important to our long-term survival. Cable/sat providers currently pay those fees to all program providers except local broadcasters. LIN is committed to withholding authorization to carry the HD signals until agreements can be reached with these entities.
Which just goes to show that LIN TV has no clue...

[Kevin Dupuy]

The CW in many market is just a digital subchannel like it is in my market. In other words the only way you'll get it is via OTA or maybe (and a big maybe) cable.

Actually, it is a full or low power analog broadcast station in most markets that are ranked higher than 100. Now, I did say most, so there are a good many that are digi-subchannels. However, once you get lower that 100, yeah, a lot are cable-only or digital subchannels, a part of The CW Plus system, and were probably a part of The WB 100+ Station Group.

[FastEddie]

Montecito Broadcasting Group
633 Picacho Lane
Montecito, CA 93108
Phone: 805-969-9278
Fax: 805-969-2399

[SParker]

noneroy, please add Grand Rapids - WOOD (NBC) to the LIN TV list.

[lwilli201]

Has anyone received a response to a query to LIN corporate? I got a response from a local station:

Our parent company, LIN Television, strongly believes that subscriber fees paid to broadcasters by cable/sat providers are important to our long-term survival. Cable/sat providers currently pay those fees to all program providers except local broadcasters. LIN is committed to withholding authorization to carry the HD signals until agreements can be reached with these entities.


However misguided, they are are being honest. No run around comment from them.

[HongKongPhooey]

Someone told me that Verizon has reached a deal with LIN to broadcast their programming including HD programming. Has anyone else heard this rumor? Wonder if Verizon had to pay those subscriber fees and if D* will follow suit and soon reach an agreement with LIN.

[harsh]

Someone told me that Verizon has reached a deal with LIN to broadcast their programming including HD programming. Has anyone else heard this rumor? Wonder if Verizon had to pay those subscriber fees and if D* will follow suit and soon reach an agreement with LIN.Here's the Lin press release: http://www.lintv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=273&Itemid=114

I swiped this link from message #184 in the City by City What's Available thread here at DBSTalk: http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=65321&page=8

[SParker]

I hope D* happens soon!

[RAD]

I hope D* happens soon!

It would be nice but I think both parties are now seeing who has the bigger set of balls and nothing will happen.

[bobnielsen]

It appears the Belo is pulling HD from cable unless they get a payment http://www.tvpredictions.com/belohd010507.htm. I wonder if satellite is next?

[harsh]

It appears the Belo is pulling HD from cable unless they get a payment http://www.tvpredictions.com/belohd010507.htm. I wonder if satellite is next?One of my two currently available HD LILs is a Belo station. If DirecTV doesn't come to an agreement, I'll be down to the Fox affiliate.

I hope this doesn't catch on.

[mrsoybot]

Any update on NYT company selling WREG (CBS) memphis? I am dreading watching the Super Bowl in SD after watching so many games in HD all year (except for some other CBS games on the ticket as i guess those morons don't have enough cameras for all of their games)

[noneroy]

Hey guys, sorry for not updating this for a while. The holidays took most of my time. I've removed Tribune (kudos again to them!) and added the additional LIN TV channel (BOOOO!). I'll spend some time this week double checking the info and adding any new information if needed.

Happy New Year!

[DawgLink]

It appears the Belo is pulling HD from cable unless they get a payment http://www.tvpredictions.com/belohd010507.htm. I wonder if satellite is next?

Cox Cable down here is running commercials against Belo/WWL (WWL is the CBS affiliate down here) since Belo/WWL wont let Cox air the channels unless they pay

Cox is thanking GOD that the Saints lost to the Bears or else they would lose half their membership due to not being able to watch the Super Bowl on CBS

[bobnielsen]

According to KOMO (ABC Seattle), Fisher and Directv came to an agreement a few weeks ago and the ball is now in Directv's court. Presumably this will apply to Portland, as well. An email to Directv only got the canned response that they will add more HD channels when D10 and 11 are up.

How many MPEG4 channels will a transponder carry? Most markets with Directv HD LIL have 4 channels carried, some have five and a few have two or three. If they can fit additional (5 total?) channels onto the spotbeam transponder (without further compression), bandwidth shouldn't be an issue.

[carl6]

bobnielsen,
You had your HD receiver at the time channel 13 Fox was added to the feed. Did you have to do anything special for it to appear, such as re-send channel authorizations, or did it just show up one day automatically?

Carl

[bobnielsen]

It just showed up. I use a custom list and had to edit that, of course.

Bob

[jasonblair]

I think you should put Nexstar on your list. Several of their affiliates are not broadcasting in HD, but rather opt to broadcast digitally in 480i.

[eric.starwars]

WISH TV is the only local Indiana peep's cant get in HD,I called WISHTV yesterday to directly ask them for a waver ( East coast CBS) and they told me there are not giving ANY waivers at this time because they are at "Odds" with D-TV over $$$ issue's with charging people for a free service and they want a piece of the auction, in so many words. AHH

[RAD]

WISH TV is the only local Indiana pep's cant get in HD,I called WISHTV yesterday to directly ask them for a waver ( East coast CBS) and they told me there are not giving ANY waivers at this time because they are at "Odds" with D-TV over $$$ issue's with charging people for a free service and they want a piece of the auction, in so many words. AHH


WISH is owned by LIN Broadcasting and their playing hardball with all providers to get a $ out of them. Maybe the FCC/Washington should have them pay for the use of the public airwaves to transmit their signals?

[pgfitzgerald]

Any update on NYT company selling WREG (CBS) memphis? I am dreading watching the Super Bowl in SD after watching so many games in HD all year (except for some other CBS games on the ticket as i guess those morons don't have enough cameras for all of their games)

Yeah, they were bought by Oak Hill Capital Partners. Unfortunately, I'm not sure we're any closer to getting WREG-DT on DirecTV. :(

Paul

[RandCfilm]

WISH TV is the only local Indiana peep's cant get in HD,I called WISHTV yesterday to directly ask them for a waver ( East coast CBS) and they told me there are not giving ANY waivers at this time because they are at "Odds" with D-TV over $$$ issue's with charging people for a free service and they want a piece of the auction, in so many words. AHHWISH TV just wants more money than they are receiving for the SD channels. If you pay for the SD locals you get the HD locals at no extra charge if they are available. WISH does not mind DTV charging for their analog SD signal but wants to take a stand on the HD signal?

[eric.starwars]

WISH TV just wants more money than they are receiving for the SD channels. If you pay for the SD locals you get the HD locals at no extra charge if they are available. WISH does not mind DTV charging for their analog SD signal but wants to take a stand on the HD signal?

Yep,that pretty much says it. We get SD WISHTV but they are the only Major, that wont give us it in HD.

[Bugs Bunny]

Today, my guide shows WISH-TV DTV on the dial. But when I select it, I get a screen that says, "DIRECTV is not authorized to show the super bowl in HD in you area. Please tune to your local CBS station for the game". What does this mean? Why have the channel on the guide then?

[eric.starwars]

Because DTV is getting so many calls asking for Wish in HD.

[jasonblair]

WISH TV is the only local Indiana peep's cant get in HD,INot true! WTHI in Terre Haute is broadcasting in 1080i, and DirecTV is not carrying them either.

[eric.starwars]

Not true! WTHI in Terre Haute is broadcasting in 1080i, and DirecTV is not carrying them either.

I was actually speaking of the Indianapolis networks.

[GeorgeLV]

You can remove Landmark and Sunbelt. KLAS in Las Vegas and KRNV in Reno have been added to DirecTV.

[Earl Bonovich]

Here is an article about how some of the networks are playing "hardball"...

This one is specifically about cable-co, but the same thing applies here to SAT.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/coxbelo021207.htm

[lwilli201]

Here is an article about how some of the networks are playing "hardball"...

This one is specifically about cable-co, but the same thing applies here to SAT.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/coxbelo021207.htm

Earl, do you know what these stations want? A flat fee or a per sub fee? I don't agree with Swammi that the FCC should arbitate. Arbitration will result in it costing something. That cost has to be passed to the subs. I can see why the FCC is keeping its distance from this.

I guess congress could pass a law that requires stations using public airwaves be required to supply their signals free to sat and cable companies. Don't see that happening.

IMHO if the stations withhold their SD and HD signals from sat and cable companies, their ad revenue will suffer due to decreased served households. Have to see who blinks first. I think the cable and sats can hold out forever, but I don't think the stations can.

[RAD]

I wrote the FCC about exactly this same problem (with the local LIN station) and got a canned response back, so much for "government for people".

Maybe Cox, D* and E* should play a little hard ball with these companies and all of them pull the plug on retransmission at the same time. Do it durning sweeps weeks and lets see how long it take the two sides to come to an agreement.

[Earl Bonovich]

Earl, do you know what these stations want? A flat fee or a per sub fee? I don't agree with Swammi that the FCC should arbitate. Arbitration will result in it costing something. That cost has to be passed to the subs. I can see why the FCC is keeping its distance from this.

I guess congress could pass a law that requires stations using public airwaves be required to supply their signals free to sat and cable companies. Don't see that happening.

IMHO if the stations withhold their SD and HD signals from sat and cable companies, their ad revenue will suffer due to decreased served households. Have to see who blinks first. I think the cable and sats can hold out forever, but I don't think the stations can.

Sorry... just now re-visiting this thread.

(note: Swani had another article on the topic: http://www.tvpredictions.com/fccact021307.htm)

As for what they want? No idea... $$$ I am sure, and from the sounds of it... a LOT of it.

One of the problems right now... is that there are plenty of rules and regulations in place for the ANALOG signals... but the digital ones... there are very few.

I just don't understand it... Why would these affiliates want to be paid the rights, to redistribute their signal.

I mean... they are going to have to broadcast over the OTA anyway, regardless if it is carried or not. And allowing them to be added to Cable and Sat... only increases their range and potential viewership... which means they can charge more for their advertisement.

As far as I know in most cases, DirecTV picks up the signal via OTA anyway, so there is no cost to the affiliate... just more viewers...

I can understand a gripe, if DirecTV wants the affiliates to pay... but from how I read the articles, it looks like it is the other way around... the affiliates are trying to be like the national networks (such as ESPN and CNN)...

But they are NOT the same as the national networks.
Honestly... sometime in the next 50 years, I hope the FCC eliminates the entire "affiliate" model.

[noneroy]

Hi guy, sorry again for not updating for a bit. I got side tracked with a new job. Anyway, I updated the info for Montecito and removed Landmark and Sunbelt.

Please post any changes that need to be made and I promise I'll respond to them much quicker than in the past.

As far as LIN goes -- they are stupid. They had the best leverage they will EVER have in 4 years....the Colts in the Superbowl on CBS. The second the game ended, the demand for CBS in HD had to drop through the floor since their Primetime shows are lacking in the ratings department.

Oh well, if D* keeps showing the local game in HD on Superfan, I won't ever need to have CBS in HD.

[GeorgeLV]

Capitol Broadcasting Company can be removed as WRAL and WRAZ are now carried by DirecTV in HD.

[noneroy]

Thanks George!


I'm wondering if we shouldn't have a 'last company standing' betting pool. Who will be the last company on the wall of shame?

My $$ is on LIN.

[Newshawk]

I'd have to take Lin, too. My dad taught me to only bet on sure things.

[man00]

No local in HD carried by DIrect TV in Ft Smith Ar

[I_P]

According to KOMO (ABC Seattle), Fisher and Directv came to an agreement a few weeks ago and the ball is now in Directv's court. Presumably this will apply to Portland, as well. An email to Directv only got the canned response that they will add more HD channels when D10 and 11 are up.I just emailed DirecTV this week telling them I was aware that an agreement was in place and asking them when they were going to turn KOMO on in HD . I got TWO canned responses, neither of which said when. Effin' Useless.

[harsh]

No local in HD carried by DIrect TV in Ft Smith ArAt Nielsen DMA #102, you need to prepare for a wait. I would guess that it will be at least a year off.

[dtv757]

D* is falling really behing in DMA #42 (norfolk, VA)

BOTH VERIZON FIOS (http://www.lintv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=273&Itemid=114)AND CABLE (COX HR) (http://www.lintv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=285&Itemid=114) HAVE AGREEMENTS FOR LOCAL HD WITH LIN.

FOX AND NBC IN HD. D* STILL DOES NOT HAVE CBS OR PBS IN OUR MARKET, COME ON D* GET WITH THE PROGRAM.

CABLE (HR)
WTKR HD-CBS-703
WAVY HD-NBC-710
WVBT HD-FOX-714
WHRO HD-PBS-715

FIOS
WHRO HD-PBS-801
UNC HD-PBS-802
WTKR HD-CBS-803
WAVY HD-NBC-TBD*
WVBT HD-FOX-TBD*

[Donnie Byrd]

dtv757, I would have to agree 100% and have completely given up on our DMA (#42) Norfolk, coming online any time in the foreseeable future. OTA will have to do for now. :nono2:

[dtv757]

^^ IN the article in the Paper (http://content.hamptonroads.com/story.cfm?story=120404&ran=41330) Mr Robert Mercer, a DirecTV spokesman, said DirecTV's HD customers in Hampton Roads will receive those channels as they roll out, sometime after the company launches a new satellite later this year so we wait ...


It went from the big announcment in OCT 06 (http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=914114&highlight=)saying we would have them by the end of 2006, than FiOS had the agreement with LIN in JAN 07 (http://www.lintv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=273&Itemid=114), to now cable is the first company (in HR) (http://www.lintv.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=285&Itemid=114) to launch the channels on there line up today MAR 2, 07:mad: :mad: FiOS won't launch the channels till MAR 17, 07 so again another wait for local HD in DMA #42.

[Ext 721]

Oddly enough, with the reply about D* not paying....D* tends to pay for locals stations that cable gets for free. THis is one reason that several news stories recently focus on calbe whining about local stations demanding they pay similar fees as D* and E*....D* tends to be the first one to "pony up the dough" for any given station (example lifetime or sinclair locals)

[Ronv]

Below is a question I asked of my local station, WOODTV Channel 8, out of Grand Rapids, MI
----Original Message-----
From: woodtv@woodtv.com [mailto:woodtv@woodtv.com]
Sent: Friday, March 09, 2007 11:24 AM
To: webcentral@woodtv.com; mike.laemers@woodtv.com; ken.selvig@woodtv.com;
wood.viewer@woodtv.com
Subject: WOOD SIGNAL PROBLEM

NAME:Ron VanDyke
EMAIL ADDRESS: xxxxxxxxx
Address:xxxxxxxxxx
CITY: Newaygo
ZIP:49337
TELEPHONE: Telephone:xxxxxxxxxxx
VIEWING SOURCE: Satellite
PROVIDER: If cable or satellite, who is your provider? DirecTV
PROBLEM: other
OTHER PROBLEM: I currently receive the SD signal that you provide to
DirecTV, via a HD Sat. receiver, (HR20). I was wondering why the signal you
provide them isn't High Definition.
Their reply was:

Mar 9, 2007 11:04 PM
subject RE: WOOD SIGNAL PROBLEM
The reason our signal is not in high definition is DirecTV has no
retransmission agreement with us.


Michael J. Laemers
Director of Engineering
WOOD TV / WOTV / WXSP
(616) 771-9668
mike.laemers@woodtv.com

[SParker]

Because LIN Broadcasting are a bunch of greedy arses :D

[sp1dey]

I noticed on Lin's website, they inked a deal with Cox Cable on 3/1. While it doesn't help us with DirecTV, it offers some hope that an eventual deal may come about.

Keep emailing and calling you LIN affiliates and DirecTV!!!!

[Newshawk]

I noticed on Lin's website, they inked a deal with Cox Cable on 3/1. While it doesn't help us with DirecTV, it offers some hope that an eventual deal may come about.

Not really, if Cox either paid money or promised to carry subchannels as part of the deal-I don't think D* would do such a deal.

[RAD]

I asked our local LIN station if there was any news on D* getting LIN stations, their response:

"On the DirecTV agreement, we have a new person at the corporate level charged with moving this forward and I was able to speak to her directly last week. For the first time in a couple years I feel we have been able to communicate how important this is to us and our viewers and am optimistic that we can resolve it in a couple months."

So MAYBE there is some light at the end of the tunnel.

[noneroy]

Just updated LIN's channels to reflect that WIVB in Buffalo isn't in HD on D* (how will you see the Bills lose in 1080i if it isn't carried?! :)

I like the above comments about LIN maybe getting their act together soon, but I won't hold my breath. However, LIN now has 5 stations not carried. That's kinda sad...

As always, if i'm missing anything in the main post, please PM me!

Cheers.

[auribe14@mac.com]

Yeah, hard to believe that at this point anyone (hint, hint LIN) thinks they are going to be the ones to change DirecTV's mind about doing something different in regards to paying for carriage or adding sub-channels.

[sp1dey]

Not sure it does much good, but I advise anyone, especially those held hostage by LIN to contact them, DirecTV, and your local affiliate as much as possible. I'm only one viewer but I've basically been telling WTNH (ABC - Hartford/New Haven) that I've flipped my OTA antenna north and I'm now a WGGB (ABC - Springfield, MA) viewer. I'm much closer to this tower and am no longer supporting LIN (WGGB is Sinclair). This stupid ABC issue is the only reason my OTA antenna is still on the roof.

[Jon D]

Not sure it does much good, but I advise anyone, especially those held hostage by LIN to contact them, DirecTV, and your local affiliate as much as possible. I'm only one viewer but I've basically been telling WTNH (ABC - Hartford/New Haven) that I've flipped my OTA antenna north and I'm now a WGGB (ABC - Springfield, MA) viewer. I'm much closer to this tower and am no longer supporting LIN (WGGB is Sinclair). This stupid ABC issue is the only reason my OTA antenna is still on the roof.

At least you're in antenna range. Down in the New London area I can't pick up anything on an antenna other than PBS which is basically worthless. At least there really isn't anything worth watching on ABC this time of year. I've actually taken channel 8 out of my favorites list until the HD one shows up. But, I too, have been screaming at LIN and WTNH.

[mrjim]

Please add this for Milwaukee - WDJT (CBS)

Station Information
WDJT-TV CBS58
809 S. 60th Street
Milwaukee, WI 53214
Phone: (414) 777-5800
Fax: (414) 777-5802
URL: http://www.cbs58.com/ this is the station in Milwaukee

Weigel Broadcasting ownes this station also

URL: http://www.wciu.com/ is for Chicago channel 26

Thanks for your information.

[Fish Man]

Another uncarried HD channel to add (New Orleans DMA):

Fox 8 WVUE-TV
1025 S. Jefferson Davis Parkway
New Orleans, LA 70125

Phone: 504-486-6161

Owner:

Emmis Communications (http://www.emmis.com/)

The problem may be that Emmis began to sell off all of their TV stations a couple of years ago and WVUE remains the only one as-yet unsold. They've probably opted to focus on getting the station sold and let the new owner negotiate with DirecTV.

Ironically, even though Emmis is trying to dump WVUE, they've not financially neglected the station itself.

Since putting it up for sale they've paid for extensive remodeling of their business offices and studios, numerous upgrades to their HD technology (including the ability to put "crawls" on the HD signal, not having to down-rez to SD for weather warning crawls, etc), and HD local news "coming in a few weeks" according to the station. ("Wheel of Fortune" and other syndicated shows going to HD at about the same time, according to the station.)

[noneroy]

*sigh* another update, more LIN stations not added. Seriously, with the two from Providence, I figured I might as well take the short time to alphabetize the towns, as the list seems to be getting longer, not shorter.

I cannot possibly see how it is not in LIN's best interest to have these channels in HD. I simply don't watch the Indy CBS channel (except with football, but that's a whole other thing). They are missing some Ad Dollars here. I don't see why a vast majority of companies can play ball, but these guys have to be the pains in the arse that they are.

I urge everyone who has D* that is lacking a LIN own-ed TV station to call again and complain. Be polite, but we need to make sure our voices are continually heard.

[noneroy]

I wanted to post this since it's on topic. This is a verbatim quote that I think shows the point of view that LIN has over HD carriage. (NOTE: HIS VIEW IS NOT AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT SO IT MAY ***NOT*** BE WHAT THEY THINK EITHER!!) This is from an engineer at WISH-TV in Indianapolis. He's a really good guy who does a heck of a job answering people's questions and helping out. Honestly, we should all be so lucky to have engineers lurk on message boards and helping out. So please don't attack the guy, he's actually very nice. :D But I think this puts to rest what the dispute is.

OK, at the risk of incurring the wrath of my employer, here's approximately the way we feel about it. I say that because I am not an official company spokesperson, and there are undoubtedly fine points and subtleties to each party's argumenst, but here goes.

Since my best friend owns a hardware store, I use this as an analogy:

If my friend decides to give away a hammer to any customer who comes in, he can do that. If some enterprising person in his town decides to provide a service, wherein he will, for $1, go and get the free hammer for anyone who agrees, that MAY be possible. But my friend, as the business owner, has the right to set the terms of the transaction. The delivery person is not an individual customer, so he doesn't qualify for the free hammer (except for himself.).

The terms might be that the customer must come in and pick up the hammer himself. Or, my friend might negotiate with the delivery person and realize that both can profit from the delivery service. But, the chance to interact directly with the customer is lost in this case. So, the cost of the lost opportunity is, maybe 10 cents of the dollar, and so that is the price my friend charges the delivery service for the hammer.

I cannot suggest that this is an accurate analogy, but it does contain some useful elements. I don't know what we are asking from the satellite services, but it is well less than they're collecting from customers.

Thoughts?

Tom Weber
Engineering


My only 'thoughts' is that it seems like LIN has reached deal with other people to carry their signal just fine. What is it about D* that makes it special?

It's interesting, there are more and more people in the Indy area bitching about LIN and WISH not being on D*. So much so that he felt compelled to write something. I'd say keep calling the parent companies and maybe even the local stations. I they are at least hearing us.

[noneroy]

I wanted to post this since it's on topic. This is a verbatim quote that I think shows the point of view that LIN has over HD carriage. (NOTE: HIS VIEW IS NOT AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT SO IT MAY ***NOT*** BE WHAT THEY THINK EITHER!!) This is from an engineer at WISH-TV in Indianapolis. He's a really good guy who does a heck of a job answering people's questions and helping out. Honestly, we should all be so lucky to have engineers lurk on message boards and helping out. So please don't attack the guy, he's actually very nice. :D But I think this puts to rest what the dispute is.



My only 'thoughts' is that it seems like LIN has reached deal with other people to carry their signal just fine. What is it about D* that makes it special?

It's interesting, there are more and more people in the Indy area bitching about LIN and WISH not being on D*. So much so that he felt compelled to write something. I'd say keep calling the parent companies and maybe even the local stations. I they are at least hearing us.

PS - Last time I checked it was E* who charged for local channels....

[RAD]

Continuing along with the hardware store story:

- There are two competing hardware stores in the story, so there is some competion going on. But LIN is the only hardware store in town in a number of cities so they can decide to do whatever they want, the customers don't have any options.

- The government gave LIN the hardware store for free and allows them to make money from selling hardware.

[Newshawk]

Your engineer friend's analogy falls apart in one crucial area. He says:

But, the chance to interact directly with the customer is lost in this case. So, the cost of the lost opportunity is, maybe 10 cents of the dollar, and so that is the price my friend charges the delivery service for the hammer.

This assumes that the person getting the "hammer" (the viewer) has no idea that it is the "hardware store" (WISH) that is providing the hammer, that the "delivery service" (D*) is passing itself off as the source of the "hammer" (programming). In fact, WISH is identified as the provider of the programming at all times and D* has no presence on the channel.

A much better analogy would be that D* is a bus line bringing customers to LIN's store to pick up the free hammer. LIN's owners want not only the money they are paid for giving out the hammer (the commercials they sell), they also want the bus line to pay them a fee for bringing customers to their store. When seen this way, it is sheer insanity to ask D* (or E* or any cable company) to pay LIN to deliver customers to their advertising that they have been well compensated for.

It all comes down to this: as my Intro to Broadcasting professor said on day one, "The sole purpose of American commercial broadcast television is to deliver the largest numer of eyeballs to a certain point in time so an advertiser can present his message." If LIN can't make money doing that, and has to extort money from cable and DBS, then they don't deserve to be in business any more.

[Newshawk]

PS - Last time I checked it was E* who charged for local channels....

Technically speaking, D*, E* and cable all charge for local channels. D* and cable build it in to the base package cost, and E* hides it as an extra cost so they can artifically lower their prices. In D*'s case, the difference between having local channels and not having them is only $3.00. In E*'s case, the locals is a $5.00 add-on. Cable usually doesn't allow you to have a package without locals.

[RxMan1]

Who do I call to complain about my SD locals not being included? Hell, HD would be nice, but ya got to start somewhere. Lubbock, TX and surrounding area. Population 250,000+. DMA 147. DISH has carried the locals for over 2 years now.

[Newshawk]

D* is committed to carrying all 212 LiL markets by 2008 (when in '08 I don't know right now), so a bit more patience would be called for...

[machavez00]

Cable usually doesn't allow you to have a package without locals.

I believe this is due to the FCC "Must Carry" rules. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Must-carry

[noneroy]

I've been informed that Fisher Communications is now up in HD on D*. Good job guys! Of course, that's one company closer to LIN being the only one up there....:D

[adgreer]

Situation is my parents are in the Albuquerque dma and they have recieved hd locals through D*, on 103 location using slimeline and hr20. When they recieved them the signal strenght was 30 to 40%. Now the signal is 10%. On the D* website according to their zip they are not supposed to be recieving them. I called and talking to tech support and they told me that they have to be granted permission to broadcast the same versions of the sd channels in hd that is why they don't recieve them. She told me eventually they would be available.

Does this sound familiar, and ota is not an option? Also does D* ever grant national hd waivers for the NY and LA locals? Thanks

[noneroy]

Not a lot of movement on these channels, it appears.

However, LIN updated their website proving that you can, in fact, polish a turd.


*SIGH* It really drives me crazy that all these TV stations can come to an agreement with DirecTV but not LIN and a few others.

Perhaps it's time for a fresh round of calls/letters/complains?

Maybe even your local congressman (if he/she can read, unlike mine) might be interested. I dunno. It's depressing.

[pgfitzgerald]

Looks like WREG (Channel 3 CBS) is now available in HD on D* in Memphis, TN.

Can anyone confirm I'm not seeing things?

Paul

[Greg Bimson]

I had seen, typing in the zipcode information on DirecTV's site, that all of the former New York Times stations are now available. I recall that to be Memphis and Oklahoma City stations.

[2Guysfootball]

Hi all I am a newbie here but I have been with D* for 10 years now.
I just sent Lin and my Local Stations an email on this I don't think it'll do any good but the more I think about the more irritated I get We in Rhode Island just went through this with Cox Cable now I have to go through this all over again??

[noneroy]

I've updated the list to remove NYT Channels.

Those of you with money on LIN being the last company on the list are looking even better.

I wonder if D10 will change anything with LIN? If any of the issues were sub-channel/multiple channel carriage, that may be resolved with all that whopping bandwidth.

[EaglePC]

Not a lot of movement on these channels, it appears.

However, LIN updated their website proving that you can, in fact, polish a turd.


*SIGH* It really drives me crazy that all these TV stations can come to an agreement with DirecTV but not LIN and a few others.

Perhaps it's time for a fresh round of calls/letters/complains?

Maybe even your local congressman (if he/she can read, unlike mine) might be interested. I dunno. It's depressing.

we should get a whole bunch of us email them I like to have Buffalo CBS in HD on DirecTV

[cmwsatfan]

I contacted my local station in New Orleans (FOX 8) to complain about their station not being in HD on D* so I can watch the Saints play. This was about 2 months ago, they gave me the standard BS about contracts bla, bla, bla. Well, a few minutes ago, lo and behold an email from the operations manager at the station appears. The message states that the station should be available in HD by the start of football season next week. I hope this is true because the majority of the games will be on this channel and I want to see them in all their HD glory.

[nollchr]

I contacted my local station in New Orleans (FOX 8) to complain about their station not being in HD on D* so I can watch the Saints play. This was about 2 months ago, they gave me the standard BS about contracts bla, bla, bla. Well, a few minutes ago, lo and behold an email from the operations manager at the station appears. The message states that the station should be available in HD by the start of football season next week. I hope this is true because the majority of the games will be on this channel and I want to see them in all their HD glory.

Shame that isn't a LIN channel..i was hoping for some light at the end of the tunnel with those people!!

[DawgLink]

I contacted my local station in New Orleans (FOX 8) to complain about their station not being in HD on D* so I can watch the Saints play. This was about 2 months ago, they gave me the standard BS about contracts bla, bla, bla. Well, a few minutes ago, lo and behold an email from the operations manager at the station appears. The message states that the station should be available in HD by the start of football season next week. I hope this is true because the majority of the games will be on this channel and I want to see them in all their HD glory.

FYI, Sunday Ticket gave me the games in HD last year even when they were home.

I use an antenna as well and it works

[digitalfreak]

I just got a reply from the head engineer at the local CW station (owned by Lin):

"Direct TV has installed equipment at their Columbus site for WWHO’s HD signal however I am not aware of their timetable for turning this up – I would suggest you contact Direct TV for more information."

Not sure if that means an agreement has been reached, or if they just installed it because they figure they'll get there eventually. I'm going to e-mail the station manager.

Is there some way to get an answer from D* as to when this turn up will happen? Figured Earl or someone may have a contact.

[raoul5788]

I just got a reply from the head engineer at the local CW station (owned by Lin):

"Direct TV has installed equipment at their Columbus site for WWHO’s HD signal however I am not aware of their timetable for turning this up – I would suggest you contact Direct TV for more information."

Not sure if that means an agreement has been reached, or if they just installed it because they figure they'll get there eventually. I'm going to e-mail the station manager.

Is there some way to get an answer from D* as to when this turn up will happen? Figured Earl or someone may have a contact.

Since you are talking about a LIN station, I would not hold my breath. Here in CT we have WTNH and WCTX owned by LIN. They are not on D* and likely will not be for the foreseeable future.

[eric.starwars]

Has anyone herd any news from WISH TV 8 out of Indy regarding HD availability ?

[nollchr]

Since you are talking about a LIN station, I would not hold my breath. Here in CT we have WTNH and WCTX owned by LIN. They are not on D* and likely will not be for the foreseeable future.

Might be encouraging (i'm in an optimistic mood this morning). If the equipment is installed, all it is waiting for is the lawyers...uh oh....now i'm not optimistic anymore.

[harsh]

Has anyone herd any news from WISH TV 8 out of Indy regarding HD availability ?Consider that WISH is a LIN station and go have a good cry.

[noneroy]

Yeah. I hope D* gives us the local games in HD again this year. I guess we'll find out Sunday...unless anyone knows the reason why D* didn't black any of them out last year. I mean, it was obviously intentional....no one screws up 17 weeks in a row without someone doing something....unless you are Comtastic! :D

[Fish Man]

I contacted my local station in New Orleans (FOX 8) to complain about their station not being in HD on D* so I can watch the Saints play. This was about 2 months ago, they gave me the standard BS about contracts bla, bla, bla. Well, a few minutes ago, lo and behold an email from the operations manager at the station appears. The message states that the station should be available in HD by the start of football season next week. I hope this is true because the majority of the games will be on this channel and I want to see them in all their HD glory.

Just in case you hadn't noticed, FOX8 (New Orleans) came to life on DirecTV in HD in the wee hours of this morning. Looks good! :up:

[cmwsatfan]

Just in case you hadn't noticed, FOX8 (New Orleans) came to life on DirecTV in HD in the wee hours of this morning. Looks good! :up:

I noticed it this morning when I got up! It looks really good to me.:)

[noneroy]

I noticed it this morning when I got up! It looks really good to me.:)

Congrats! Emmis Communications have been removed.

This list is getting smaller and smaller. Those of you who picked LIN to be the last one standing are looking pretty good.....

[GeorgeLV]

^^
LIN should also be blamed for Fox 11 WLUK in Green Bay in the first post.

[StormSurge]

Since you are talking about a LIN station, I would not hold my breath. Here in CT we have WTNH and WCTX owned by LIN. They are not on D* and likely will not be for the foreseeable future.

Arrrgh.

I waited & waited for LIN to get off of their arses while having Cox. Now I'm getting ready to jump back to DirecTV & I have to deal with it all over again. :mad:

[madcityzig]

Quincy Newspapers, Inc

Contact Info:
130 South 5th Street
P.O. Box 909
Quincy, IL USA
217.223.5100

HD channels not carried:
Madison - WKOW (ABC)


This can be reomoved. It is in HD now.

[noneroy]

Quincy Newspapers, Inc

Contact Info:
130 South 5th Street
P.O. Box 909
Quincy, IL USA
217.223.5100

HD channels not carried:
Madison - WKOW (ABC)


This can be reomoved. It is in HD now.

Excellent. I've removed it.

I think I'll do a little research and double check this list. Either everyone is getting on board or I'm a little out of date. Or both. :)

The new HD channels should give an influx of HD subscribers. Hopefully that'll put more pressure on these guys to get with the program....or lose viewers.

[ziggy29]

Excellent. I've removed it.

I think I'll do a little research and double check this list. Either everyone is getting on board or I'm a little out of date. Or both. :)
Except for the geniuses at LIN who seem to think losing viewership is a good business decision.

I'd like to go over their heads to the network as well, in this case NBC. Who would be the contact? Viewer Relations, I guess?

[noneroy]

Except for the geniuses at LIN who seem to think losing viewership is a good business decision.

I'd like to go over their heads to the network as well, in this case NBC. Who would be the contact? Viewer Relations, I guess?

Probably, but I've got to think there isn't an 'over their heads' situation. I think the buck probably stops with LIN.

If you contact the parent channels and you get an interesting response, please paste that here and who you contacted and I'll happily add that information in the main post. however, I think that the stations are set up in such a way that the local station 'owners' are the ones calling these shots.

Not trying to discourage you, just trying to set your expectations.... :)

[cdizzy]

Looks like us here in Portland, OR may have a chance to get our local CBS(KOIN) in HD because they were sold yet again.


http://www.lordbissell.com/newsstand/1222

[cdizzy]

Another nice thing to point out is that at least 1 of the stations that were baught by New Vision is already being broacasted in HD by D*.

[burnside]

Looks like us here in Portland, OR may have a chance to get our local CBS(KOIN) in HD because they were sold yet again.


http://www.lordbissell.com/newsstand/1222

too bad the nfl season will be done by then. :(

[ARKDTVfan]

any update on Little Rock HD locals?

I qualified for CBS and FOX distant HD but not NBC and ABC ,it'd be nice to see Sunday Night Football and ABC college football in HD

[harsh]

Looks like us here in Portland, OR may have a chance to get our local CBS(KOIN) in HD because they were sold yet again. I find it unfathomable that it took 21 lawyers to execute the deal.

This should at least open the doors to negotiation (assuming it doesn't take another 21 lawyers).

[harsh]

too bad the nfl season will be done by then. :(Is there anywhere in "The Couv" that can't receive OTA with an indoor antenna? (Standing under the Evergreen grandstand doesn't count).

[eric.starwars]

I'll tell ya, watching the Colts & Bears game yesterday in SD on WISHtv was unbarable. On my 50 in LCD the qty is just crap! The only reason for my to drop D-TV for cable is so I can get WISH in HD.

[noneroy]

I'll tell ya, watching the Colts & Bears game yesterday in SD on WISHtv was unbarable. On my 50 in LCD the qty is just crap! The only reason for my to drop D-TV for cable is so I can get WISH in HD.

I've heard from a number of people in the bloomington area that you can get WISH OTA. I just don't want that giant antenna on my house.

My fiance is a Steelers fan so we have Sunday Ticket Superfan and they actually don't black out the HD games that would otherwise be shown locally (I believe because we don't have WISH in HD). So I gets me colts in HD....

Thankfully football is the only watchable program on CBS. The rest is absolute crap.

[burnside]

Is there anywhere in "The Couv" that can't receive OTA with an indoor antenna? (Standing under the Evergreen grandstand doesn't count).

I'm actually outside the couv in washougal

[cdizzy]

I find it unfathomable that it took 21 lawyers to execute the deal.

This should at least open the doors to negotiation (assuming it doesn't take another 21 lawyers).

Me too! :lol:

But it was a 330 million dollar deal for the four stations so I would imagine it would take several lawyers to make sure everything goes down like it's supposed to.

[eric.starwars]

I've heard from a number of people in the bloomington area that you can get WISH OTA. I just don't want that giant antenna on my house.

My fiance is a Steelers fan so we have Sunday Ticket Superfan and they actually don't black out the HD games that would otherwise be shown locally (I believe because we don't have WISH in HD). So I gets me colts in HD....

Thankfully football is the only watchable program on CBS. The rest is absolute crap.

Ya but I just think its silly to get a $100 dollor roof top just to get one station.

[drcurtis]

I've heard from a number of people in the bloomington area that you can get WISH OTA. I just don't want that giant antenna on my house.

My fiance is a Steelers fan so we have Sunday Ticket Superfan and they actually don't black out the HD games that would otherwise be shown locally (I believe because we don't have WISH in HD). So I gets me colts in HD....

Thankfully football is the only watchable program on CBS. The rest is absolute crap.

My e-mail to WISH-TV:
Hello,

I'm down in Bedford, and it has not been possible for me to pick up the HD over the air (I can pick up CBS 32 from Louisville, but it is often choppy).

I have the MPEG 4 DirecTV hardware and have been enjoying NBC and ABC in HD, but channel 8, frankly, looks like crap in SD on a 61" HDTV.

Is this a contractual problem (i.e., Channel 8 negotiations with DirecTV are ongoing) or is this a bandwith issue for DirecTV that might be resolved with the new sats that are about to kick on?

I'd like to know how to plan for Colts games on CBS this season.

My response from WISH-TV:
Thanks for your e-mail.

WISH is currently in negotiations with DirecTv for carriage of our HD signal. We have successfully arranged for our HD signal to be carried on numerous cable services. At this time, though, we are not yet available to any DirecTv subscribers in any location.

If you would like some help in determining whether you could pick up our over-the-air signal with some adjustments, please contact our resident HD expert, Tom Weber, at (317) 956-8535, for more details.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and hope that an agreement with DirecTv will be reached soon.

Best Wishes,

Lance Carwile
WISH Programming

My reply back to WISH-TV:
I will not be able to pick it up over the air, due to the distance; believe me, I have tried in the past and it is not possible in my situtation. I will continue to watch Louisville's CBS hi-def OTA feed for football and continue to avoid WISH-TV for nightly shows due to my strong preference for HD. I'd say it's time to quit holding out and move on with things for the benefit of your viewers.
Thanks for the response,
...

Well, I can honestly say this situation sucks, and I hope things change before the season is already over.

[HolyRoses]

LIN tv also owns WOTV (ABC) 41 broadcasts in west michigan. Think its out of Kalamazoo/Battle Creek. It is not on HD, but the SD is. Fortunately we can watch WZZM (ABC) 13 in HD instead though. Real killer is WOOD tv8, our only NBC.


-HR

[eric.starwars]

Thanks drcurtis for sharing your email with WISH.

[TMullenJr]

Can somebody that understands SHVERA (or whatever it is) explain who's allowed to get a waiver?

I think all of us on Lin TV should be able to get a waiver approved for the HD versions of the channels. I've contacted my local ABC affiliate (WTNH in CT) and received a reply that all waiver requests have to go through Lin. I sent an email to Lin, and they said that they need to go through D*. I've sent an email to D* inquiring who they submit the waiver requests to, hoping to finally get to the bottom of this. I just sent the D* email this morning, so I'll post what they say later.

Also, because of where I am in CT, I also receive NYC channels as "Neighboring local channels" in SD, but not HD. Should I be able to receive them in HD as well?

Thanks for the help.

[FastEddie]

Is there anywhere in "The Couv" that can't receive OTA with an indoor antenna? (Standing under the Evergreen grandstand doesn't count).


I live off 162nd Ave and Fourth Plain and my rooftop ant. gets KOIN but the signal is 35-60 and drops out all the time. I cant get anything for inside the house.

I petitioned for a waiver and was denied.

[eric.starwars]

I've heard from a number of people in the bloomington area that you can get WISH OTA. I just don't want that giant antenna on my house.

My fiance is a Steelers fan so we have Sunday Ticket Superfan and they actually don't black out the HD games that would otherwise be shown locally (I believe because we don't have WISH in HD). So I gets me colts in HD....

Thankfully football is the only watchable program on CBS. The rest is absolute crap.

Is there anything I can do to help with the problem or a way I can get a waiver?

[Greg Bimson]

Can somebody that understands SHVERA (or whatever it is) explain who's allowed to get a waiver? I'll try to make this simple.

If you are in the predicted reception area of an analog network station, you must have your DBS company request a waiver to allow you to receive a distant network.

Therefore, if you are in the analog reception area of LIN's WTNH ABC station, you would ask DirecTV to request a waiver from WTNH in order to get an out of market ABC station, in either SD or HD. Of course, because LIN and DirecTV cannot come to terms on an HD carriage agreement, LIN will reject the request for a waiver.Also, because of where I am in CT, I also receive NYC channels as "Neighboring local channels" in SD, but not HD. Should I be able to receive them in HD as well? Not necessarily. This is due to carriage contracts, as well as the significantly-viewed list. Technically, there shouldn't be any digital stations on the significantly-viewed list. The list gets updated from time to time, but I do not recall a station with the -DT suffix (meaning digital) on the list. All the stations end in -TV (analog television).

[jangell2]

any update on Little Rock HD locals?

I qualified for CBS and FOX distant HD but not NBC and ABC ,it'd be nice to see Sunday Night Football and ABC college football in HDI'll ditto the question. I don't qualify for any distant affilliates.

[jtalberts]

I would just like to be able to get my local channels through Directv. I live in Wheeling, WV and it would be nice to pull some channels from Pittsburgh.


I would like to know when we can get the locals and if it is soon, I don't wanna spend all the money on an antenna and then it goes to waste.

[hijump245]

Looks like us here in Portland, OR may have a chance to get our local CBS(KOIN) in HD because they were sold yet again.


So is there any way to follow the transaction through the FCC and then figure out if New Vision will offer the HD feed to D*? :confused:

I almost never watch CBS now because it's SD.

[harsh]

I would just like to be able to get my local channels through Directv. I live in Wheeling, WV and it would be nice to pull some channels from Pittsburgh.Waivers and the NYC channels are probably your only option from D*.

With the right OTA antenna, many possibilities exist.

[harsh]

So is there any way to follow the transaction through the FCC and then figure out if New Vision will offer the HD feed to D*?The FCC has no purview over local carriage agreements. These deals are entirely between D* and the station owners.

These negotiations tend to be very private.

[AccidenT]

FYI, WPFO in Portland, ME is now being carried in HD by D*. It's been there for a couple of weeks, IIRC.

[noneroy]

FYI, WPFO in Portland, ME is now being carried in HD by D*. It's been there for a couple of weeks, IIRC.

So noted. I need to go back through the HD channel list and get this all updated again. We really can't be down to the last 4 companies.....

Pretty soon we'll need to rename this thread to: Who to complain to at LIN TV.....

:rolleyes:

EDIT: Updated the main page. Looks like most of the holes are LIN TV.....Maybe time for a new round of calls/emails people.....

[eric.starwars]

So is there any end in sight for WISH out of Indy?

[RAD]

Probably not until LIN lowers the price that they want to charge D* or E* or those companies cave in and pay what LIN is asking for.

[Indiana627]

Looks like most of the holes are LIN TV.....Maybe time for a new round of calls/emails people.....
I've been emailing the PR contact listed on their website for some time and get the occasional reply but I'm not sure what good it's doing.

[nollchr]

I've been emailing the PR contact listed on their website for some time and get the occasional reply but I'm not sure what good it's doing.

My ABC affiliate is a LIN station. Its the only network I don't get in HD from satellite. Since becoming more of an HD snob lately, I am definately neglecting the new shows on ABC this fall in favor of the other networks that I get in HD. I think this is the only way to get to LIN...by ignoring their channels as much as possible. Hopefully they come to an agreement before Lost is on in February though!!

[Indiana627]

My ABC affiliate is a LIN station. Its the only network I don't get in HD from satellite. Since becoming more of an HD snob lately, I am definately neglecting the new shows on ABC this fall in favor of the other networks that I get in HD. I think this is the only way to get to LIN...by ignoring their channels as much as possible. Hopefully they come to an agreement before Lost is on in February though!!
That's exactly the kind of info I've been emailing the PR contact listed on www.lintv.com. What she does with them I don't know. If anyone else does the same thing and emails her, just please keep it polite and professional. Name calling will not help our cause.

[eric.starwars]

I just sent them a email.

[noneroy]

That's exactly the kind of info I've been emailing the PR contact listed on www.lintv.com. What she does with them I don't know. If anyone else does the same thing and emails her, just please keep it polite and professional. Name calling will not help our cause.

I wrote her an email and never got a response.... :(.

I just think they don't care. If you'll notice, they have a lot of channels not in HD....I think they figure the HD expansion will keep going with D* and they'll keep holing out. Eventually it'll hit critical mass and D*/E* will cave....(though, knowing charlie that won't happen).

There should be more accountability for these companies using OUR public airwaves. Yes, I know that it's not the case that we are trying to pick up the signal over directv...but there should be some sort of external mediation factor here....

Perhaps our local congress persons? Maybe I'll do a little digging here on the political side of things....I wonder who LIN has bought in congress.....

[tunce]

Is there anyone out there with any updated info on when Milwaukee - WDJT (CBS) channel 58 will ever be shown in HD?

[rossgs]

The biggest problem is the lack of PBS in HD and there's no one to write to about that. Does anyone know why this is the case?

[Dr_J]

The biggest problem is the lack of PBS in HD and there's no one to write to about that. Does anyone know why this is the case?

I think PBS is demanding that the satellite companies carry not only the regular PBS channels but all the PBS subchannels as well, and the satellites don't have the bandwidth. Hence, no PBS HD.

[galaxie428]

I wrote both D* and LIN early this week because I want Indianapolis CBS in HD and they both stated they are negotiations. If you are interested, here is both responses.

Thank you very much for your e-mail regarding the expansion of HD services in Indianapolis. In order for DirecTv to view WISH-TV in HD, we must enter into a contractual agreement. WISH-TV is just as eager as you are to successfully negotiate with DirecTv and provide subscribers our signal in HD.

I understand your frustrations but must emphasize that what is at stake in these negotiations is not just an allocation of cost between cable and satellite systems such as DirecTv and broadcasters but the very survival of high quality local stations. WISH-TV is fully-committed to providing its viewers with the best local and network programming and the best in HD picture quality. Needless to say, doing so is extremely expensive. We have spent millions of dollars to upgrade our facilities nationwide so that we may broadcast a pristine, high-definition signal to households like yours.

For years, we and other broadcasters allowed these companies to carry our stations at no cost while they charged viewers a stiff fee for those very same stations. To make things worse, they have used the revenues from local broadcast stations to pay our cable and satellite network competitors. Those competitors now routinely outbid us for signature entertainment and sports programming despite the fact that they get a fraction of the viewing we get. We have made a determination that we cannot continue on this path, much less make the transition to digital, and continue to provide you with the best prime time network, sports and high-quality local news programming unless we get a modest-but-fair share of the pay television revenues.

Most of the cable and satellite companies that carry our stations have recognized this new reality and are now compensating us. We are optimistic that we will reach a deal with DirecTv too - and we are committing tremendous resources to getting that deal done sooner rather than later.

Thanks very much for your interest.

Lance Carwile

WISH-TV Programming Dept.

AND D* response

Thanks for writing about your interest in getting CBS in HD. I understand how important HD programming is to you and I assure you that we are doing our best to bring more of it to you as soon as possible.

Before we're able to add a local channel as a part of our service, by law we must reach an agreement with the local station that gives us permission to broadcast its signal. To date, we haven't been able to reach an agreement with CBS. We have negotiated in good faith with the management of CBS and we believe we have made a fair and reasonable offer similar to the terms that DIRECTV has successfully negotiated with stations in other markets, including the other Indianapolis, IN stations.

We recognize that the customer is caught in the middle of this process and we hope to resolve it as quickly as possible, and begin providing you with a full lineup of your local network TV channels. Should you have any other concern, you can also call us anytime at 1-800-531-5000 and one of our customer specialists will be happy to assist you.

Thanks again for writing, we appreciate your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Analyn C.
Employee ID 100181650
DIRECTV Customer Service

[eric.starwars]

I wrote both D* and LIN early this week because I want Indianapolis CBS in HD and they both stated they are negotiations. If you are interested, here is both responses.

Thank you very much for your e-mail regarding the expansion of HD services in Indianapolis. In order for DirecTv to view WISH-TV in HD, we must enter into a contractual agreement. WISH-TV is just as eager as you are to successfully negotiate with DirecTv and provide subscribers our signal in HD.

I understand your frustrations but must emphasize that what is at stake in these negotiations is not just an allocation of cost between cable and satellite systems such as DirecTv and broadcasters but the very survival of high quality local stations. WISH-TV is fully-committed to providing its viewers with the best local and network programming and the best in HD picture quality. Needless to say, doing so is extremely expensive. We have spent millions of dollars to upgrade our facilities nationwide so that we may broadcast a pristine, high-definition signal to households like yours.

For years, we and other broadcasters allowed these companies to carry our stations at no cost while they charged viewers a stiff fee for those very same stations. To make things worse, they have used the revenues from local broadcast stations to pay our cable and satellite network competitors. Those competitors now routinely outbid us for signature entertainment and sports programming despite the fact that they get a fraction of the viewing we get. We have made a determination that we cannot continue on this path, much less make the transition to digital, and continue to provide you with the best prime time network, sports and high-quality local news programming unless we get a modest-but-fair share of the pay television revenues.

Most of the cable and satellite companies that carry our stations have recognized this new reality and are now compensating us. We are optimistic that we will reach a deal with DirecTv too - and we are committing tremendous resources to getting that deal done sooner rather than later.

Thanks very much for your interest.

Lance Carwile

WISH-TV Programming Dept.

AND D* response

Thanks for writing about your interest in getting CBS in HD. I understand how important HD programming is to you and I assure you that we are doing our best to bring more of it to you as soon as possible.

Before we're able to add a local channel as a part of our service, by law we must reach an agreement with the local station that gives us permission to broadcast its signal. To date, we haven't been able to reach an agreement with CBS. We have negotiated in good faith with the management of CBS and we believe we have made a fair and reasonable offer similar to the terms that DIRECTV has successfully negotiated with stations in other markets, including the other Indianapolis, IN stations.

We recognize that the customer is caught in the middle of this process and we hope to resolve it as quickly as possible, and begin providing you with a full lineup of your local network TV channels. Should you have any other concern, you can also call us anytime at 1-800-531-5000 and one of our customer specialists will be happy to assist you.

Thanks again for writing, we appreciate your patience and understanding.

Sincerely,

Analyn C.
Employee ID 100181650
DIRECTV Customer Service

Thanks for the update and your effort Galaxie, I'm in Bloomington & I want it HD SO BAD too. I emailed both LIN and DTV and yet to get a response. Everybody keep those letters to WISH and DTV a coming!

[whalerfan]

It's not only Directv that Lin is duking it out with. MetroCast cable in Eastern CT and Rhode Island is removing Lin channels from their service. Ironically, Lin is attempting to steer customers to Directv or Dishnetwork to keep the eyeballs that they'll lose.

Here's what MetroCast says in their press release:

Waterford, CT – MetroCast Communications announced today that it will be forced to drop WTNH, WCTX and WPRI (collectively, the “Stations”) on October 7th, 2007 because LIN Television Corporation (“LIN Broadcasting” and owner of the stations) has refused to grant MetroCast permission to continue carrying the stations after that date. LIN Broadcasting’s consent, commonly called “retransmission consent,” is required under federal law.

According to John Dee, General Manager of MetroCast, LIN Broadcasting has rejected multiple offers by MetroCast over the last 9 months to continue carrying the Stations on the MetroCast cable system for consideration that MetroCast firmly believes is fair and equitable and that is entirely consistent with MetroCast’s offers accepted by other broadcasters in the marketplace. Dee further indicated that MetroCast is not willing to agree to the terms offered by LIN Broadcasting inasmuch as this would result in a significant rate increase to all of its customers in exchange for primarily duplicate network programming. LIN Broadcasting in turn has requested that all three broadcast stations be deleted from MetroCast’s programming line-up immediately.

When LIN Broadcasting removes its stations from MetroCast’s programming line-up, MetroCast will offer alternative programming to its basic customers, including New England Cable News Network. The Company also is preparing a survey that will ask customers to choose what additional networks they would like to see added in the channel slots that will become available when LIN Broadcasting removes its stations from MetroCast’s programming line-up.

John Dee also noted that customers will not lose ABC or CBS Network programming since such network programming is already available on WFSB (CBS-Hartford) and WLNE (ABC-Providence). Customers will also not lose Yankees coverage since WCTX has not yet secured the rights to any Yankees broadcast games for 2008, and The Yankees Network is already available to all MetroCast Expanded Basic customers. Local advertisers of the LIN stations should contact MetroCast to inquire about placement of advertising on other MetroCast channels, to replace the estimated 100,000 viewers that will no longer be able to receive the LIN stations via cable TV in MetroCast’s viewing area.

[cbyrd]

I solved the LIN problem... I went outside, turned my antenna towards Raleigh, connected the cable from the antenna to the HR20 and said screw LIN!. Now I get HD and the satisfaction of denying them the advertising dollars they would have gotten if they would just let D* retransmit to start with.

[harsh]

MetroCast cable in Eastern CT and Rhode Island is removing Lin channels from their service.I'm glad to see that other distributors are willing to push back.

[noneroy]

I wish directv could do the same thing. I'd happily settle for another CBS station over LIN. I also wish I could put up a huge antenna and get it OTA. The more channels LIN pulls and plays hardball with the worse this will get for them. D* should at least be giving out information for consumers to contact LIN, since such a small portion of customers will read this thread.

It's good to see a big company try to cut off it's nose to spite it's face. The way these turkeys are running LIN, they'll be out of business soon.

[Superproducerts]

I live in Indy too and it's frustrating that I can't get CBS in HD. I watch a lot of CBS shows and I can't get the NFL in HD. I think there are enough Dish and DirecTV subsribers in the area that we could make a differance. I understand that all companies involved are in the business of making money, but what ever happened to customer service? I think we should organize a protest outside WISH-TV and invite the other stations in Indy to show up. How about contacting their advertisers? That might get some attention. This will get worked out eventually, it has to, but how long to WE have to suffer?

[eric.starwars]

I live in Indy too and it's frustrating that I can't get CBS in HD. I watch a lot of CBS shows and I can't get the NFL in HD. I think there are enough Dish and DirecTV subsribers in the area that we could make a differance. I understand that all companies involved are in the business of making money, but what ever happened to customer service? I think we should organize a protest outside WISH-TV and invite the other stations in Indy to show up. How about contacting their advertisers? That might get some attention. This will get worked out eventually, it has to, but how long to WE have to suffer?

Amen Brother!

[Cru Jones]

Anybody know who I can write to about getting HD locals in the Monterey-Salinas market? Makes me so mad, I'm on the border of Santa Clara County and San Benito County but since my zip code is in San Benito County, I cannot get locals in HD while those across the street in Santa Clara County enjoy them. So lame.

[noneroy]

Anybody know who I can write to about getting HD locals in the Monterey-Salinas market? Makes me so mad, I'm on the border of Santa Clara County and San Benito County but since my zip code is in San Benito County, I cannot get locals in HD while those across the street in Santa Clara County enjoy them. So lame.

Hm. This seems to be more of a DMA issue than it is a 'parent company' issue. I think you have a few choices the most legal of them being to put up an antenna. You MIGHT be able to plead your case to DirecTV, but since this is more of a DMA issue than it is an carrier issue, not much you can do.

[Cru Jones]

What is DMA? Any tips on pleading my case? Not sure what to say. Thanks for the reply!!!

[SParker]

What is DMA? Any tips on pleading my case? Not sure what to say. Thanks for the reply!!!

Designated Market Assignment I think.

[millertime]

Just a quick thought. My NBC unfortunately is owned by LIN here in SW Michigan so I am not holding my breath, however I now am realizing that My Network TV is also owned by them I think. Now I don't watch that channel much except for the winter months when the Pistons are on and I watched the game the other night and it was painful. What I'm getting at is if LIN and D* were to come to an agreement am I correct in assuming not only would we get WOOD we would also get WOTV and WXSP all in HD as well? Not that I care about WOTV but what the hell might as well give them all to us for making us wait this long:) Any input on this subject is appreciated especially from all my SW MI Bros!!!! P.S. Keep in mind that when the Pistons or Red Wings are on My Net TV I believe it is a microwave feed from Detroit's My Net TV 20 and sometimes WDIV 4 NBC will this affect anything? I think this is why the SD programming looks so crappy. I just read that LIN as been looking to sellout since MAY this is great news. C'mon somebody step up and make the purchase.

[Azdeadwood]

I wish directv could do the same thing. I'd happily settle for another CBS station over LIN. I also wish I could put up a huge antenna and get it OTA. The more channels LIN pulls and plays hardball with the worse this will get for them. D* should at least be giving out information for consumers to contact LIN, since such a small portion of customers will read this thread.

It's good to see a big company try to cut off it's nose to spite it's face. The way these turkeys are running LIN, they'll be out of business soon.

I agree Directv and Dish should be letting customers know that LIN is the problem. Unfortunately I don't think LIN gives a damn. I have sent emails and letters to the local channel (in Albuquerque) as well as the National headquarters and have never gotten a response of any kind.

[SParker]

What I'm getting at is if LIN and D* were to come to an agreement am I correct in assuming not only would we get WOOD we would also get WOTV and WXSP all in HD as well? Not that I care about WOTV but what the hell might as well give them all to us for making us wait this long:) Any input on this subject is appreciated especially from all my SW MI Bros!!!! P.S. Keep in mind that when the Pistons or Red Wings are on My Net TV I believe it is a microwave feed from Detroit's My Net TV 20 and sometimes WDIV 4 NBC will this affect anything? I think this is why the SD programming looks so crappy. I just read that LIN as been looking to sellout since MAY this is great news. C'mon somebody step up and make the purchase.

You would get WOTV in HD because they broadcast that in HD OTA. However since they don't broadcast CW7 or WXSP in HD OTA then we will never have HD's of those unless they provide an HD feed which I doubt. :( I would love Smallville and Everybody Hates Chris in HD...

[KRBY]

Local Channels for HD are controlled by two factors, first agreements with local affilate to broadcast in HD, causing some areas only to get a couple of major affiliates. 2nd is locals are broadcast through spot beams, a narrower range of sat sig to specific local regions, if you fall outside this range you are out of luck without an off air ant, or requesting a waiver from DTV for distant network service (all those channels in the 80's for west and east coast feeds).

If DTV can't provide your locals in HD or SD they will submit a waiver for you if you ask (some experienced reps will volunteer it), however the local broadcasters in the end have sole power over granting or denying a waiver for any outside feeds from 119 or 110. And it can take up to 45 days before they legally have to give reply.

[PeterB]

I sent a nicely worded letter to LIN and WTNH a couple of months ago.

The abridged version was I went through the trouble of getting an OTA antenna for ABC in HD. The thing was, instead of trying to get WTNH's pitiful signal, I pointed my antenna north and enjoy WGGB out of springfield instead. Then I promptly delete CH 8 from my channel lists so I never have to look at its awful SD feed again, and I encourage others to do so.

Its obvious that LIN Broadcasting is the issue here, as this seems to be an ordeal for EVERY provider, not just DirecTv being stingy or Charlie playing poker with the broadcasters again.

I am suprised the networks themseleves havent stepped in and done something. It can't be good for large markets to be missing HD feeds like this due to your station owner's pig headedness.

[sunking]

I sent a nicely worded letter to LIN and WTNH a couple of months ago.

The abridged version was I went through the trouble of getting an OTA antenna for ABC in HD. The thing was, instead of trying to get WTNH's pitiful signal, I pointed my antenna north and enjoy WGGB out of springfield instead. Then I promptly delete CH 8 from my channel lists so I never have to look at its awful SD feed again, and I encourage others to do so.

I did the exact same thing and mentioned that most people in northern CT who have to go through the trouble of pulling an OTA signal also choose to watch wggb OTA over TNH out of spite. Maybe what we really need to do is get a list of advertisers and email them the situation. Maybe 'Good ole bob' will get mad that his pawn shop isn't being viewed by everyone.

[cbyrd]

I did the exact same thing and mentioned that most people in northern CT who have to go through the trouble of pulling an OTA signal also choose to watch wggb OTA over TNH out of spite. Maybe what we really need to do is get a list of advertisers and email them the situation. Maybe 'Good ole bob' will get mad that his pawn shop isn't being viewed by everyone.

I think local advertisers would probably have the most pull. LIN doesn't seem to care that we don't watch their signal...and the networks surely don't care as long as we're watching their feed from SOMEWHERE.

Right now I'm pretty happy though. I don't watch LIN stations at all anymore...just OTA from Raleigh :)

[Firefighter]

Who owns CBS in Indianapolis market ? We have all other locals but CBS.

[eric.starwars]

Who owns CBS in Indianapolis market ? We have all other locals but CBS.

LIN.
Read above for all the info.

[elove]

Who do I write to about the CW? I am in the Washington, DC metro area.

[Indiana627]

Something strange I just noticed on D* online listings. I logged in and then selected to view My Channels for my ZIP. It then listed my LIN owned CBS affiliate twice (once for SD and once for HD) just like it does for my other LIL HD (NBC, ABC, FOX). It lists both Criminal Minds and CSI:NY as HD tonight. Could this mean a deal with LIN is done? Or imminent?

10733

[fliptheflop]

My Lin owned CBS is on there also. Anyone know if its always been on there?

[Boleyc]

I searched the thread but didn't see this in here:

*On July 24, 2007, Montecito announced the sale of all of its stations (KHON, KOIN, KSNW and KSNT) to New Vision Television, ending the partnership between SJL and The Blackstone Group. The sale is subject to FCC approval. [1] Once the sale is consummated, SJL will retain WICU as its sole television property, barring the remote possibility of purchasing stations from Fox Television Stations and/or other companies.

Found on wikipedia:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montecito_Broadcast_Group

New Vision website with DMA's owned/pending:
http://www.newvisiontv.com/properties.html

Specifically, I want KOIN in Portland to be carried via DirecTV, which is why I'm researching the status.

[noneroy]

Not sure i ever noticed it before but if I put in my zipcode for my local channels into the online guide, I too see the CBS station owned by LIN. Yet if i look for the local channels offered, I don't see CBS.

Might be worth a quick note to DirecTV. It is, at the least confusing. However it might be a sign of things to come. I mean, it certainly is only a matter of time before a deal happens, I would think.

I'll drop a note and post the response here.

EDIT: This MIGHT just be for OTA purposes. Might not.

EDIT #2: The other channels not in HD and not from LIN (Portland and Milwaukee) also show up in the guide. I'm thinking this is for OTA or just to have 'everything' on there. Funny that CW channels and PBS channels are not listed in HD too though. Just the big 4.

[Indiana627]

Funny that CW channels and PBS channels are not listed in HD too though. Just the big 4.
Yup, "strange things are afoot at the Circle-K."

[noneroy]

Well. I got a non-response response from DirecTV.


Thanks for writing. I'm sorry for any confusion about your local channels in HD. For your reference, here are the local channels that are available in HD in your area:

Channel Affiliate Network
13 WTHR NBC
59 WXIN FOX
6 WRTV ABC

The two new satellites have allowed us to begin offering HD local channels in several cities, with many more to come later this year. Because our satellite capacity is still limited, we intend to focus on getting HD feeds of ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC up in as many cities as possible. Next year, when the other two satellites become available, we will be able to begin providing even more channels (including CW, where available) in existing HD local markets, as well as adding new HD markets and more national HD programming.

Though currently we are not able to offer CBS in HD, we continue to evaluate our available capacity and discuss the addition of HD channels with our program providers.



so who knows. I think all the channels are on the guide for completeness and is not a sign of things to come with LIN. However, CW and PBS in HD off the dish would be pretty cool. Go D11 Go!

[stansher]

We do not receive KOIN CBS Portland Or in HD. It has been listed however in the online guide until being removed today. I hope D can come to an agreement with the new station owners soon. I recently came over from E where this HD channel is available and I watch a lot a programing on CBS.

[harsh]

I recently came over from E where this HD channel is available and I watch a lot a programing on CBS.Can you get KOIN OTA in Mac?

A coworker of mine made the jump from Comcast and he can't get KOIN OTA. It is absolutely killing him. Of course like all other D* subscribers with "Advanced" equipment (H20), he's locked in for another 18 months.

[stansher]

Can you get KOIN OTA in Mac?

A coworker of mine made the jump from Comcast and he can't get KOIN OTA. It is absolutely killing him. Of course like all other D* subscribers with "Advanced" equipment (H20), he's locked in for another 18 months.

No, unfortunatly we are to low with high hills in the way. I tried to get a waiver for CBS LA, but KOIN rejected it.

[stansher]

No, unfortunatly we are to low with high hills in the way. I tried to get a waiver for CBS LA, but KOIN rejected it.

I was told by the installer and many other people in town that I could not pick up Portland HD OTA here in McMinnville. I deceided to try it anyway. I purchased an amplified indor/outdoor HD Antenna. To my surprise I can pick up one Portland channel, KOIN CBS
comes in perfectly and I am also receiving PBSDT from Corvalles. I can now wait patiently for D to add it. You might tell your friend that it may work. I currently have the antenna indoors but plan to move it outside.

[Indiana627]

Something strange I just noticed on D* online listings. I logged in and then selected to view My Channels for my ZIP. It then listed my LIN owned CBS affiliate twice (once for SD and once for HD) just like it does for my other LIL HD (NBC, ABC, FOX). It lists both Criminal Minds and CSI:NY as HD tonight. Could this mean a deal with LIN is done? Or imminent?

10733
Checked again today and I'm back to just my SD CBS listing.

[swans]

my local channels not being in HD. They say tough s#!t we are trying to get the HD channels out that will bring us in the most revenue.

[dvisthe]

Info about Scranton/Wilkes-barre DMA (#54), I posted this in another thread, but I decided to post it here too.,

"Capacity to launch more than a dozen local markets (including WNEP) will go up in the near future, possibly by the end of the year," said Robert Mercer with DirectTV.

Robert Mercer of DirectTV said an announcement about progress in getting
WNEP's and all local channels' HD signals on its satellites could come later this week.

http://www.wnep.com/Global/story.asp?S=7290833&nav=menu158_3

[jtn]

Are they going in numerical order per DMA for HD?

[harsh]

Are they going in numerical order per DMA for HD?No. One of the most recent DMAs was Mankato, MN (#199, one CBS feed plus other bigs from Minneapolis). Reno was turned up a little more than a year ago at #110.

Check out Newshawk's list: http://hr20.dbstalk.com/html/DTV_HDLIL_DMA.html

[stansher]

Looks like us here in Portland, OR may have a chance to get our local CBS(KOIN) in HD because they were sold yet again.


http://www.lordbissell.com/newsstand/1222

Montecito took ownership of KOIN on 11-2. Hopefully we will see the HD version soon!!!

[budd1e_lee]

Montecito took ownership of KOIN on 11-2. Hopefully we will see the HD version soon!!!

That was the previous acquisition. Montecito just sold to New Vision, it looks like its still pending.

[on7green]

sent a nicely worded letter to LIN

I also sent LIN an email. No reply.

[socal404]

I had sent an email to Directv inquiring about KCAL here in Los Angeles. It is an independent channel. It carries both Laker and Dodger games in HD. We don't, however, get that channel in HD. Here is the response I received from them.

Thanks for writing. I know that HD programming is important to you and DIRECTV is committed to offering the best possible HD experience to you. In recent months, we have launched the first two of four satellites that will allow us to greatly expand our HD local channel offerings.

The two new satellites have allowed us to begin offering HD local channels in several cities, with many more to come later this year. Because our satellite capacity is still limited, we intend to focus on getting HD feeds of ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC up in as many cities as possible. Next year, when the other two satellites become available, we will be able to begin providing even more channels (including CW, where available) in existing HD local markets, as well as adding new HD markets and more national HD programming.

Though currently we are not able to offer KCAL9 , we continue to evaluate our available capacity and discuss the addition of HD channels with our program providers.

Thanks again for writing and stay tuned to directv.com for the latest news and information about our services.

[Dirk]

I have done the waivers twice and CBS and NBC keep denying them. I don't even have a local CBS or NBC station. The closest ones are like 70 miles away. So this is starting to upset me quite a bit.

[stansher]

That was the previous acquisition. Montecito just sold to New Vision, it looks like its still pending.

Sorry, Montecito handed over the keys to New Vision on 11-2 The artical is in todays Oregonian.

[budd1e_lee]

Sorry, Montecito handed over the keys to New Vision on 11-2 The artical is in todays Oregonian.

That I had not seen, I was responding to the post that had misstated that Montecito was the new ownership. Hopefully this gets the ball rolling and I can get rid of this unsightly antenna on top of my HR20.

[harsh]

Hopefully this gets the ball rolling and I can get rid of this unsightly antenna on top of my HR20.So you don't watch any HD on KOPB, KRCW or KPDX?

[Boleyc]

So you don't watch any HD on KOPB, KRCW or KPDX?

I don't. Once KOIN is on DirecTv I will happily unplug my OTA antenna. :)

[burnside]

Damn, would have been nice to have the Pats-Colts game in HD over the weekend. Let's hope we get HD on CBS by at least the playoffs.

[stansher]

Damn, would have been nice to have the Pats-Colts game in HD over the weekend. Let's hope we get HD on CBS by at least the playoffs.

I live in McMinnville. The only OTA that I receive is KOIN and PBSDT from Corvallis.
The signal strenth on KOIN is only about 40 and I have not had it hooked up long enough to see what effect bad weather has on it. So I hope D moves quickly to get this added. Hopefully they have enough bandwith or we will have to wait for D11 to launch.

[budd1e_lee]

So you don't watch any HD on KOPB, KRCW or KPDX?

Nope, I sure dont. Getting rid of that antenna will also allow me to move the HR21 that matches everything else on my stand.

[Azdeadwood]

I also sent LIN an email. No reply.

They won't reply. I have sent them and their local stations emails about this. LIN does not respond and the station sends back form letters that have nothing to do with what I wrote to them about.

I also see from the website that they have very nice instructions on how to set up your antenna to get the OTA broadcast if you have cable, Dish or D*.

I would feel better if there was someone I could yell at that is responsible but of course they filter out those kind of calls.

[Mike P]

I wonder how soon Flint/Bay City/Saginaw, MI will be added to the HD locals club? I'm pretty sure they are one of the next 5 markets to come next?

* Sigh *

My OTA Antenna is working okay for now.......

[keithtd]

This sux, I have to say that if I were not a D customer and were shopping D, E and cable for my new HD TV for X-Mas, whomever provided my locals in HD would have the edge.
Locals still are the most watched and we still do not have HD locals...this sux!

[noneroy]

This sux, I have to say that if I were not a D customer and were shopping D, E and cable for my new HD TV for X-Mas, whomever provided my locals in HD would have the edge.
Locals still are the most watched and we still do not have HD locals...this sux!

A agree to a point. I think it depends on the person and the HD channels. All we are missing is CBS-HD and I watch *nothing* on there other than football and I get that in HD thanks to Superfan. So, I'm really not losing too much since the other 99% of their programming is, in my opinion, some of the crappiest on tv. I'd rather have the other 30 HD stations DirecTV offers.

The only time I start to get angry is during playoff time. But, hey, if the Colts keep getting injured, that might not even be a concern this year! :lol:

[Indiana627]

I'm confused. KASA-TV in Albuquerque is owned by LIN TV yet it is available in HD from Directv. I thought LIN wouldn't let D* retransmit any of it's HD signals. How come this one is different? (And yes I'm jealous as LIN owns my local CBS!)

[cdizzy]

I'm confused. KASA-TV in Albuquerque is owned by LIN TV yet it is available in HD from Directv. I thought LIN wouldn't let D* retransmit any of it's HD signals. How come this one is different? (And yes I'm jealous as LIN owns my local CBS!)


I would guess that maybe it was already on D* before being sold to LIN last year? Just a guess.

[Indiana627]

Ah, LIN recently bought it? That would make sense.

[cdizzy]

Yes, looks like the sale went through late last year.

[TMullenJr]

Does DirecTV carry any CW channels in HD? My local is WTXX (Hartford, CT) which is a Tribune channel, which currently is not available in HD from D*. Plus, still waiting on Lin for my ABC (WTNH).

[geneb11]

Who carries this channel?

CW28
WLWC
One State Street, Suite 100
Providence, RI 02908
Phone: 401-351-8828
Fax: 401-351-0222

I get this network on channel 56 over the air from Cambridge MA ,but it is a weak signal and goes in and out. Anybody know when Directv will carry it? We have had locals for a while now and none have been added. CBS and ABC are the other biggies I want to see.

[arxaw]

Nope, I sure dont. Getting rid of that antenna will also allow me to move the HR21 that matches everything else on my stand.Put the antenna in the attic.

[Tubaman-Z]

I am in the Rochester, MN market and receive SD locals via D* and HD locals via OTA. While this works for me, I am interested in when I'll see HD locals via D* (and recorded in MPEG 4).

[Wire Paladin]

I sent email to WDCW in Washington DC and got this reply

Thank you for contacting us! We are hoping to be in HD on DirecTV in
January.

Thank you for watching the CW Washington!

Tanya
Programming

Hope this is true. Can't wait for Smallville in HD.

[GACE]

I sent email to WDCW in Washington DC and got this reply

Thank you for contacting us! We are hoping to be in HD on DirecTV in
January.

Thank you for watching the CW Washington!

Tanya
Programming

Hope this is true. Can't wait for Smallville in HD.

I wrote the Bay Area CW and this was their response.
Subject: RE: DirecTV
Thanks, The CW 44cable12 is available in HD over the air and on Comcast on 712. DirecTV has declined to carry us. We hope that changes when more customers like yourself demand that DirectTV carry The CW in HD.

Please do let me know what DirectTV's response is.

Akilah Monifa amonifa@kpix.cbs.com

As you can see they are also owned by CBS

[noneroy]

Yeah. I think directv is trying to get 'The Big 4' in HD first then go back and get CW/PBS/etc. I think the biggest demand is for the big 4 and I think they'll do the others if bandwidth permits. While we might not all agree with that, it certainly makes the most business sense.

[nikwax]

A agree to a point. I think it depends on the person and the HD channels. All we are missing is CBS-HD and I watch *nothing* on there other than football and I get that in HD thanks to Superfan. So, I'm really not losing too much since the other 99% of their programming is, in my opinion, some of the crappiest on tv. I'd rather have the other 30 HD stations DirecTV offers.



I'm in agreement with you 100%. I only watch NFL games on CBS, the rest of their programming is crap IMRHO. I'd like to see the games in HD but not holding my breath.

[GACE]

I wrote the Bay Area CW and this was their response.
Subject: RE: DirecTV
Thanks, The CW 44cable12 is available in HD over the air and on Comcast on 712. DirecTV has declined to carry us. We hope that changes when more customers like yourself demand that DirectTV carry The CW in HD.

Please do let me know what DirectTV's response is.

Akilah Monifa amonifa@kpix.cbs.com

As you can see they are also owned by CBS

Thank you DirecTV! Now I can watch Smallville, Supernatural, and Reaper in HD :D

[ajrich]

This is the relpy I received about WISH TV in Indy.

Dear Mr. Richardson:

I'm sorry, but there is nothing new to report about WISH-HD on DirecTv.
I have been told that DirecTv has stopped returning our phone calls to
continue negotiations. I cannot predict when arrangements will be
completed for our signal.

Thanks again for your interest.

Regards,

Lance Carwile
Programming

[Indiana627]

This is the relpy I received about WISH TV in Indy.
Patience.

[noneroy]

This is the relpy I received about WISH TV in Indy.

Dear Mr. Richardson:

I'm sorry, but there is nothing new to report about WISH-HD on DirecTv.
I have been told that DirecTv has stopped returning our phone calls to
continue negotiations. I cannot predict when arrangements will be
completed for our signal.

Thanks again for your interest.

Regards,

Lance Carwile
Programming

I would have believed this before D10 was in the air if they didn't have the room for more. But I wouldn't imagine DirecTV would have any desire to NOT carry their channel. I think DirecTV wants to have all the locals in HD, so Lance's statement makes no sense...

Unless of course LIN is wanting so much money for their silly local channels that DirecTV is giving up. That sounds about right to me. I doubt very much that Lance here is talking to DirecTV given that all of LIN's locals are not in HD on DirecTV. This is not a 'local' issue, this is an issue with the parent company. The missing HD local channels in DirecTV's line up tell the truth. I wonder what we'd find if we look into LIN's books. I wonder if certain cable companies have board members/stock/shares/interest in them. That is the only way I could explain their absolutely stupid business practices. They seem to be the only TV channels that want fewer people to watch them.

Oh well. I only need CBS for at least 1 more week, hopefully 2 (NFL Playoffs) and then it'll be back to not watching them for 8 months. The sad thing is, there are a LOT of people who WOULD like to watch them in glorious HD and simply are not.

Thankfully, the FTC wants to deregulate the local TV markets and let LIN have even more power. Oops, did I say 'thankfully'? I meant 'Stupidly'. ;)

[Dan1]

This is the relpy I received about WISH TV in Indy.

Dear Mr. Richardson:

I'm sorry, but there is nothing new to report about WISH-HD on DirecTv.
I have been told that DirecTv has stopped returning our phone calls to
continue negotiations. I cannot predict when arrangements will be
completed for our signal.

Thanks again for your interest.

Regards,

Lance Carwile
Programming

I sent them an email today. We just need to keep after them.

[mabellboi]

I just sent this email to LIN TV...

Hello. I am a resident in Buffalo NY. I am writing today to vent my frustration with your company. I have DirecTV service, and I find absolutely ludicrous that I can not watch WIVB (our CBS affiliate) through my DirecTV service in High Definition. I get my FOX, NBC, ABC in High Def, but no CBS.

I've come to learn that it's not just a Buffalo problem, but rather a LIN TV problem affecting all of your stations. I'm failing to see how/why if my other affiliates (and even the ABC affiliate which is run by a BROKE/BANKRUPT company) can afford to upload the signal, that you choose not to. From your website: "LIN TV Corp., along with its subsidiaries (“LIN TV” or “the Company”), is one of the largest television station groups
in the country. "

So is that you are just unwilling to negotiate with DirecTV, or just too greedy?

[RAD]

Suddenlink cable, which services parts of the north Austin TX area and LIN couldn't come to agreement for retransmission of KXAN (NBC) in Austin. Suddenlink had requested temporary approval to keep KXAN on their system while negotiations continued, LIN refused, so on 12/31 KXAN disappeared from the Suddenlink systems.

In what I think is a great move on Suddenlinks part, they added the NBC affiliate from Temple/Waco, which also happens to provide a grade B signal to the effected areas basically telling KXAN/LIN to shove it, we don't need you. So now KXAN has lost many thousands of possible views because of their policy for retransmission rights.

[ARKDTVfan]

Suddenlink cable, which services parts of the north Austin TX area and LIN couldn't come to agreement for retransmission of KXAN (NBC) in Austin. Suddenlink had requested temporary approval to keep KXAN on their system while negotiations continued, LIN refused, so on 12/31 KXAN disappeared from the Suddenlink systems.

In what I think is a great move on Suddenlinks part, they added the NBC affiliate from Temple/Waco, which also happens to provide a grade B signal to the effected areas basically telling KXAN/LIN to shove it, we don't need you. So now KXAN has lost many thousands of possible views because of their policy for retransmission rights.

great move by them :D
the FCC should say hey if you don't want to allow carriage then consumers can get distant networks feeds

[keithtd]

Sounds to me like our local cable company is doing a booming post x-mas business as I read in today's business section that they're sold out of HD boxes!

Geez, wonder if it's because they offer locals in HD EVEN though they only offer a total of 20 HD channels!

Guess locals do matter huh?

[kevinwmsn]

RAD, I hope that shows LIN who's boss. Just wished a lot more areas would have choices like those, then LIN would be showed the door across the country.

[noneroy]

Sounds to me like our local cable company is doing a booming post x-mas business as I read in today's business section that they're sold out of HD boxes!

Geez, wonder if it's because they offer locals in HD EVEN though they only offer a total of 20 HD channels!

Guess locals do matter huh?

Without a doubt. I'm lucky that my missing channel is one I dont care about. I'm not sure the story of all these channels, but I do have LIN figured out. They were the last HD channel on our local cablel cos too. For this exact same reason.

Funny story: Cable companies send local channels in the clear over the coax cable, so if you have a TV with a QAM tuner, you can get it as part of their most basic package. Well, a buddy of mine noticed that they hadn't put the analog trap on the cable line when he had his cable modem installed. So *POOF* he has CBS in HD thanks to a negligent installer. I guess they saw the dish and figured that they didn't need to bother with the little trap. Now that's Comcastic!

That story gave me ideas on how to solve my predicament...none of which I'll get into on this board. :D

[ajrich]

They put the analog filter on my line but I still have cable internet and decided to do a scan with the qam tuner in my computer and found all my digital locals from insight communications which is now comcast so hopefully the locals stay until the nlf playoffs are done on cbs. I don't watch anything on cbs besides football.

[ben arnold]

Here was my answer from an e-mail to LIN.

We are negotiating with DirecTV and hope to reach an agreement with them to provide our HD signal to Toledo, and all of our markets. I appreciate your email and please don't hesitate to keep in touch.

Thank you,

Courtney Guertin
Public Relations Specialist
LIN TV Corp.
4 Richmond Square
Providence, RI 02906
401.457.9501 office; 401.368.6655 cell
401.454.2817

Good Afternoon-

Directv announced that they are going to add HD locals to their Toledo Ohio deck in the coming months. Looking at LIN stations I couldn't help but notice that rarely (if ever) does Directv offer LIN stations in HD despite, offering virtually all other stations feeds. In Toledo, you own the Fox affiliate which worries me. Should I assume that when Directv goes live with Toledo stations Fox will not be included? I hope if there is issues between LIN and Directv that they can be worked out soon. Seems like you both have a vested interest in hitting as many homes as possible.

Regards,

[RAD]

I hope it happens but don't get your hopes up, got a similar response a year ago from our station.

[keithtd]

If LIN and D* are going to act like spoiled greedy corporations then it's time to extend this issue to who everyone hates to get involved...big brother. I'm writing my 3 reps in Congress tonight. Don't expect much but hey, neither LIN nor D* gives a sh*t about us.

Found a site that you can write all your reps by submitting your zip code;
http://www.rallycongress.com/

[silverWRX03]

I live in Fargo, ND and I've been told we are too small of a market so we are a long ways down on the list. It stinks because many of my friends won't leave cable because they recieve thier locals in hd. 90% of the shows we watch are on locals so running an antena to my tv will be my only option for now.

[lwilli201]

If LIN and D* are going to act like spoiled greedy corporations then it's time to extend this issue to who everyone hates to get involved...big brother. I'm writing my 3 reps in Congress tonight. Don't expect much but hey, neither LIN nor D* gives a sh*t about us.

Found a site that you can write all your reps by submitting your zip code;
http://www.rallycongress.com/

Directv has come to terms with everyone except LIN, so who is the greedy one. LIN thinks they are worth more than everyone else. Directv is holding out because if they have to pay LIN then they will have to pay all the locals the same. Who is going to pay for the extra cost? You and me that is who. If any one cares it is Directv because they do not want to charge US more for LIL channels.

[narcolept]

Directv has come to terms with everyone except LIN, so who is the greedy one. LIN thinks they are worth more than everyone else. Directv is holding out because if they have to pay LIN then they will have to pay all the locals the same. Who is going to pay for the extra cost? You and me that is who. If any one cares it is Directv because they do not want to charge US more for LIL channels.

There are others.. Sinclair, and now Nexstar for HD, since Wilkes-BArre/Scranton, AP is the largest DMA nexstar has multiple stations in, is beginning to surface -- Nexstar has more stations than LIN and could be the next one in the battle -- Most of Nexstar's SD retrans agreements are coming up this year, and their earnings call statements on retrans agreements are not favorable for DirecTV.

[lwilli201]

There are others.. Sinclair, and now Nexstar for HD, since Wilkes-BArre/Scranton, AP is the largest DMA nexstar has multiple stations in, is beginning to surface -- Nexstar has more stations than LIN and could be the next one in the battle -- Most of Nexstar's SD retrans agreements are coming up this year, and their earnings call statements on retrans agreements are not favorable for DirecTV.

Our cost for LIL will go up if Directv has to pay more to stations. I can already hear the howl from those that will call Directv greedy, when in reality it is because the locals are charging more for carriage rights. It really is a no win for Directv or their subscribers. It will also be a hit to cable subs.

[ktk0117]

There are others.. Sinclair, and now Nexstar for HD, since Wilkes-BArre/Scranton, AP is the largest DMA nexstar has multiple stations in, is beginning to surface -- Nexstar has more stations than LIN and could be the next one in the battle -- Most of Nexstar's SD retrans agreements are coming up this year, and their earnings call statements on retrans agreements are not favorable for DirecTV.

Also Weigel's CBS station in Milwaukee, thay are just as bad as LIN

[Indiana627]

LIN reached a deal with Cable One to allow it to retransmit KASA's analog and HD signal in Albuquerque. So maybe there's hope for a deal with D*.

http://lintv.com/news/images/PDFs/ne...29,%202008.pdf

[David Carmichael]

While DirecTV just added three of my local channels in HD-DVD in the Wichita, KS market area [ -THANK YOU DIRECTV- ], they seem to be missing the a few local channels in HD.
So I sent them an email asking when will NBC-KSNWDT3-1, PBS-KPTS8DT-1thru3, KWCHDT12-2, CW-KSCWDT33-1 & MNT-KMTW36-1 be sent via Satelite? and their reply was:

.. I know that HD programming is important to you and DIRECTV is committed to offering the best possible HD experience to our customers. We understand that you are looking forward to receive NBC, PBS, CW and MNT in HD from DIRECTV. Let me assist you with this matter. We don’t have plans to add NBC, PBS, CW and MNT in HD at this time..

Also asked with no reply:
Why are the new local digital HD channels not marked with a different channel number such as "-1" both of my local ABC-KAKEDT10-1 and CBS-KWCHDT12-1 at times does have different programing on the HD side than the SD side... KAKEDT10-1 shows the 'enhanced' orignal Star Trek Series late night while the SD side shows info commercials for example...
If I unhide the SD channels and type in '10' to go to ABC I get the SD ABC channel. and seem to only get to the HD side sent by DirecTV by using the guide.
--David

[lwilli201]

If I unhide the SD channels and type in '10' to go to ABC I get the SD ABC channel. and seem to only get to the HD side sent by DirecTV by using the guide.
--David

If both HD and SD are shown in the quide, entering the channel number in the remote should take you to the HD station. Having different content on the main HD and SD channels seems to be an exception. After the digital changeover, you will only be getting the main HD channel. All of those infomercials will probably be on a digital subchannel.

[tbackus]

I'm happy for the HD locals in Wichita, but why not NBC? Are they owned by LIN? grrr.. NBC is probably my favorite station. I'm happy, but frustrated too.

I sent an e-mail to the NBC affliate, but have not gotten any reply at all.

[Greg Bimson]

The NBC station in Wichita was owned by Montecito, which I believe is now owned by New Vision. It is Montecito why DirecTV had not added KOIN in Portland, Oregon, to the local package there. So this appears to be the same issue.

As to PBS, right now DirecTV does not carry a single PBS station. There was a recent agreement between the Association of Public Television Stations (APTS), of which most stations are members, and DirecTV. As long as the parties, as well as PBS ratifes the contract, I suspect the PBS affiliates will be up and running on DirecTV by the end of 2008.

As to the sub-channels (those ending in a number other than -01), I doubt they will be carried unless DirecTV is forced to by law.

As to the MyNetworkTV and CW stations, DirecTV will probably gradually phase those in over time. They need to get D11 up and running.

[Shawn Parr]

Does anyone have any information on the local channels for the Shreveport Louisiana local market? Either supposed timeframes, or corporate overlordship? I tried a few searches and didn't find much information.

The channels are:

KTBS - ABC
KMSS - Fox
KSLA - CBS
KTLA - NBC

None of them are offered in HD currently, but here's hoping...