So you know how we’ve been bombarded since the beginning of last year with messages about the switch-over from analog to digital TV next month right? Well you may also be aware that Congress is debating whether to hold off the transition until June. They estimate that more than 6.5 million households aren’t ready. Okay, seriously? 6.5 MILLION households aren’t ready? How can they not be ready? If you did not know about this transition, you have been living in a hole somewhere. This has been a topic in the news and local television for MORE than 1 year. There has been plenty of notice. I don’t think Congress should have sympathy for these folks. I’m sorry if that sounds rude, but I just don’t understand how that many people are NOT ready for this. Even when the government offered these converter boxes for FREE! We shouldn’t’ have to be penalized for other people’s procrastination. Just saying. Plus, delaying the transition will cost broadcasters money as well because they have to air both digital and analog signals for another four months. The delay could also effect public safety agencies and wireless companies who are waiting for the airwaves to be freed up by the release of the analog signals.
I just don’t even understand how it’s up for discussion. I think they need to do what they said they were going to do and switch it February 17th. Tell you what. Those that have procrastinated will snap to it really quick when they can’t watch tv. What do you think?
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A side note...I just got a call from a lady who said they received their voucher for a converter box over a year ago. She said it would cost her $12.50 per converter box with the coupon for $40.00 off. She said they could not afford that and also didn't realize that the coupons were only good for one month. She said when it came down to putting food on her table or watching TV, there was not a choice. She said that her family is getting ready to lose their house as well. I apologized to this woman. $12.50 may not seem like much to me, but it is to her and to many others. And she said they really can't afford to buy a new TV to deal with the upgrade. Poor thing. I feel so shallow. I hadn't really thought about it like that.
ReplyDeleteWell...it doesn't matter what we think. Congress passed the delay of Analog to Digital until June 12th. Bummer.
ReplyDeleteJennifer,
ReplyDeleteAnother perspective == we bought the converter box using the coupon and a new very good aerial and when we were not able to get the digital signals for 2 out of 3 of the major Knoxville stations (ABC (WATE) and NBC (WBIR), we even bought a new digital TV set. We still cannot get the digital signals for those stations. When we called to ask them for advice, they indicated that our side of town has interference due to the mountainous terrain. We live in zip 37914. WE ARE TRYING!!! I think digital may not be ready for east TN and especially, east Knox County. We need help, not criticism.
You have a very good point. I ruffled a lot of feathers with my comments. I figured it would, but I am learning from the comments I have been receiving. I am seeing a different perspective so I appreciate you taking the time to post. I'm on a mission to do some research now. Good luck with everything.
ReplyDeleteWell, I was mistaken. The delay has not passed. As of right now, we will still change to digital on February 17th.
ReplyDelete