01-29-09 Community Relations Committee

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Community Relations Committee Meeting Minutes January 29, 2009 Page 2 The transition will result in more efficiencies. Mr. Freedman noted that in 1996 the United States Congress passed legislation requiring a 2°d digital channel for each television station under the control of the FCC. Under that federal legislation, all such television channels will stop transmitting on analog channels on February 17, 2009 and give those channels back to the FCC. First responders will be better able to communicate as a result; it will enhance advanced wireless services; there will be a better picture quality; multi-tasking will be available, etc. Mr. Freedman noted that if your television is now hooked up to cable or satellite you will not be effected by the transition from analog to digital. If you have a television with a digital tuner (look for markings "ATSC" on the television or check the owner's manual) you will not be affected. Most televisions which are less than five (5) years old are ATSC. Those individuals who are not on cable, do not have a satellite dish, and do not have a ATSC television will be affected. Those individuals most likely use rabbit ears or roof-top antennas. Mr. Freedman noted that: 11.9 % of the public nationally will be affected 19.4% of the public in the South Bend/Elkhart area will be affected Mr. Freedman noted that a standazd television with a digital turner costs about $119 fora 20" set, so people do not have to go out and purchase an expensive flat-screen tv. He also noted that purchasing a converter box is even less expensive. He suggested going to the FCC website: FCC.GOV for more information or calling the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC. He added that there are five (5) stations in this area which are low power television stations. Analog will pass thru the converter box and covert both full-power and lower-power stations. Mr. Freedman then reviewed the coupon program noting that $40 coupons aze available on afirst-come-first-serve basis. $1.34 billion was allocated for the coupon program and 7.2 million coupons have been issued to date, each with a 90-day expiration. Currently there are 2 million people on a waiting list for the coupons, and as those coupons which have been issued expire for non-usage they will be issued. As of this date he has no idea whether Congress will extend the February 17~` deadline or not. He noted that television is vital in light of weather emergencies. In response to questions from Council Member Puzzello, Mr. Freedman noted that a converter box runs between $50 to $75 before the $40 coupon. He added that the transition to digital will not effect cable. Mr. Freedman then did a demonstration using a volunteer from the audience to hook-up a converter box. The picture was much better as part of the demonstration. He noted that persons should periodically scan for new channels since many stations may not be at full power for a short period of time. Council Member Davis thanked Mr. Freedman for an excellent presentation. He noted that Mr. Freedman has offered to stay after the meeting to continue to address any concerns which the audience may have.