TV Worth Blogging
by David Thiel, Program Director for WILL-TV
An insider's view of public television programming and the issues that help determine what and how you watch
What's On The World?
As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago, PBS World is now available 24 hours a day on WILL's digital channel 12.2. (It is also anticipated to launch on Comcast cable systems throughout Central Illinois on May 27.)
I wanted to take a moment to highlight some of the regular series offered on PBS World. Some are not currently aired on our primary channel, but several are old favorites now offered at alternate viewing times for your convenience! Take a peek at what the World has to offer!
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Further Status Update: Cable, Satellite and Guide Issues
A new week finds that most of the issues affecting WILL's cable/satellite carriage, as well as our guide listings, have been resolved.
Here's where things stand! New update on April 30; read below for details.
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Update: Cable, Satellite and Program Guide Issues
Over the last few days, we have been deluged with calls and e-mails regarding a variety of problems related to cable, satellite and program guides. We've spent a great deal of time attempting to track down the underlying issues and to contact appropriate staff at these various services.
That’s been more difficult than you might think. One thing that I've learned is that cable companies make it very difficult to reach anyone in charge.
Expand this entry to find our where things stand...
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PBS World (and Create) Now Available 24 Hours A Day!
This morning, WILL-TV took its final step (for now) in its digital multicast plans. Effective today, WILL 12.2--which had previously been a standard-definition simulcast of our primary channel--is the new home for PBS World!
We're now able to offer the full slate of World programming, including news, public affairs and documentaries. You can watch favorites such as Charlie Rose or The Newshour at alternate times, or enjoy series such as Tavis Smiley and WorldFocus that we previously couldn't accommodate on a single channel.
Read more on "PBS World (and Create) Now Available 24 Hours A Day!"
Update: Comcast in Bloomington
This morning, we began to receive calls from Comcast cable customers in the Bloomington, IL area who reported that they were no longer able to receive WILL-TV. We've investigated the situation, and here's what we know:
WILL-TV no longer appears on the analog tier of Comcast's service in and around Bloomington/Normal. We are still available to Comcast customers who receive digital service, typically through a set-top box. According to Comcast's own estimate, this change currently affects about 20% of their subscribers, those who have not yet upgraded to digital cable.
To continue to receive WILL-TV, those customers will need to exercise one of two options:
1) Upgrade to digital cable. According to a Comcast spokesperson, they will be offering free installation of set-top boxes, and no additional charge for the first 12 months. Please contact your local Comcast office for more information.
2) Receive our free, over-the-air signal. Our digital broadcast offers crystal-clear HD programs (when available) and three different channels. You may need a digital converter box and/or a better antenna. Read our DTV FAQ for more information.
So, why the change? Read on...
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Public TV Is Tops With Mr. Peabody
The 2009 Peabody Awards for excellence in electronic media were announced on April 1 and PBS programs received seven, more than any other media outlet.
Among the recipients was the long-running Friday night series Washington Week with Gwen Ifill. It was cited as "the political talk show that sets the standard for the genre."
More winners after the jump!
