TV Blog

By J

October 8, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

I dont think Time Warner is wrong at all, if KXAN wasnt trying to get something for nothing then we'd still have that channel. KXAN is trying to upgrade to HD and have TW foot the bill is the way it sounds to me! Go Timewarner...stick to your guns!

By LadyG

October 8, 2008 8:03 AM | Link to this

Well, I hope KXAN is happy. I have gotten used to no NBC. And could care less. I will not be bullied into switching to another provider. This is nothing more than a greed dispute. Both sides are WRONG.

By twc is right

October 8, 2008 7:25 AM | Link to this

Time Warner is right, they are the best..kxan sux! But I'd drop timewarner if they caved in a paid for the free signal! I have plenty of other channels left, and a set of rabbit ears in the closet if I just had to watch a NBC show. This isnt a big deal unless you are just a couch potato! Get over it Spud!

By B

October 7, 2008 6:33 PM | Link to this

I have zero sympathy for Time Warner. I have experienced nothing but headaches after switching back to them (from Grande) a few months ago. I switched primarily for On Demand, but now I don't get NBC?! They tell me that KXAN wants to charge ME for a signal, but the last time I checked, my cable checks are made out to Time Warner Cable. It is ridiculous that customers should have to deal with this.

By Bucky

October 7, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Simply put, TWC has a problem with one of their suppliers. Why is that my problem? TWC, quit campaigning to sway public opinion in your favor and show some kind of compensation to your customers for the resulting reduction in service. Oh, I forgot...monopolies don't have to.

By Harold

October 7, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this

Judging by KXAN's obnoxious advertisement on the front page of the Stateman's website ("TWC has let you down"), I would say it is safe to say they are starting to fill the pinch and getting desperate.

By Bill

October 6, 2008 8:56 PM | Link to this

So, this "---- contest" comes to us by way of some VPs with Lin and TWC ... Fire them all. They have lost touch with whom the customer is.
To Lin Broadcasting: Are you willing to reduce your advertising rates to reflect all the viewers that you HAD when your signal was part of the TWC lineup? Every newscast that you send to only part of the Greater Austin market puts you behind the other stations (where before this, you were the favorite.)
To TWC: I pay for ALL the local stations. Reduce my bill by the equivalent of one premium station to compensate me for your bull-headed, short-sighted arrogance.
To BOTH of you: Do not include your customers in your squabbling. This is BAD BUSINESS.

By GaryS

October 6, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

So, it is now October 6th. Is anything happening in getting this stalemate ended????

By Maadimom

October 6, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

I'd like to thank LinTV and Time Warner. I now have my laptop hooked up to my television and can watch the only 2 shows I ever watch on NBC without commercials. Bad timing with the economy in the tank and all. I really don't think that this is the time to be nickeling and diming your customer base.

By Watchful

October 5, 2008 9:29 PM | Link to this

I'm with Cheater Viewer, there's something fishy about all this. I couldn't have said it better!
I don't feel like changing my cable provider just because of the "one" channel I hardly watch, and when I do, is because I taped so I can skip the endless commercials.
In the end, yes... KXAN the joke's on you.

By Cheater Viewer

October 5, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

We the consumers need to Organize!!! I am not going to be bullied into getting rid of my TW Cable so I can help line to pockets of some greedy goof at KXAN, with their kick backs from other companies they are trying to force us to get. The Real Joke is on KXAN.....they have very Few shows worthing watching. It is the principal however that is really jerking my chain. Go Time Warner...Stand Firm. Help us Organize!!!

By Mery

October 4, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this

Time Warner in Ohio passed out free antennas to their subscribers...read that in the Dayton Daily News

By Morris Woods

October 4, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

We are getting the shaft by both TWC and KXAN so we need to think through what will happen next and make wise decisions. If TWC gives into KXAN then all of the other local stations will want to be paid. TWC will then raise out bills again. We should demand a discount from TWC for the diminished service that TWC is providing and let the advertisers of KXAN know that we have the option of shopping some where else. Both TWC and KXAN are trying to fatten their bottom without any concern for the viewers.

By Tim

October 4, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

Susan, KXAN can't "give." No individual station in any of the affected markets can give. Only LIN can give. (I would add that TWC Austin isn't helping by saying "KXAN" is doing this or "KXAN" isn't doing that. KXAN isn't doing it, LIN is doing it and KXAN has no choice in the matter.)

As for boycotting KXAN's advertisers, I dare say that LIN's forced blacking out of KXAN on TWC is harming their advertisers far, far more than any boycott could accomplish. I don't believe any consumer pressure on advertisers is needed because they already have all the reason in the world to turn up the heat on LIN to get this resolved.

By Seguin DeRousse

October 4, 2008 4:25 PM | Link to this

LIN is crazy. There isn't that much on NBC that is worth watching anymore anyway...

By EmilyL

October 4, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

#1) We want smart journalists not prima donna's. When and why did they ever pamper the anchors as if they were movie stars?
#2) Maybe if local news spent their time reporting interesting, intellectual, and THOUGHTFUL news programming instead of spending all their time coming up with new ways to get money it wouldn't be such a joke and we would ACTUALLY WATCH and they would watch old fashioned advertising dollars roll in. (i.e. KVUE is always top ranked..hmmm maybe they do something right)

By Will

October 4, 2008 3:27 PM | Link to this

I called Time Warner to sign up for their free local channels but they said they don't offer free local channels. Their ad states thay KXAN wants us to pay for free local channels when Time Warner is the one charging us for free local channels. An easy solution for both sides would be for Time Warner to stop charging everyone for free channels and lower everyones cable bill by 19.95 which is what they charge for their basic local channels.

By Susan

October 4, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

Boycott KXAN and its advertisers. Lyndon Baines Johnson did much to bring free airwaves to the citizens of this state and nation, so Austinites should not stand for LIN trying to force us to buy satellites, which are highly unreliable and not even a consideration for lower-income viewers who get basic cable included in their rent. KXAN is discrimating against the poor in the intent to line its coffers. Boycott all KXAN advertisers and call them each day to know how Austinites feel about this corporate attempt to strangle our first amendment rights to hear the news, see debates. Sure other stations broadcast them, but NBC traditionally gives more coverage. KXAN is denying basic cable viewers who might work odd shifts to tape the debate on the best network. Also, please let the network know how you feel about its affiliates actions. KXAN will listen and will serve its community, if we apply the pressure. Advertisers already know they're viewership is drastically cut, so if we let them know we won't shop with them, KXAN will have to give.

By Natalie

October 4, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

@DoYouReallyCareWhatMyNameIs: My name is Natalie Tate and I am a communications specialist at TWC Central Texas. You are absolutely right about using the internet to watch your favorite shows. My husband and I often do this with "The Office" when we miss episodes. Do you connect your computer to your TV to watch it that way? We have a link on our www.thetruthhurtskxan.com site for an instructional video for anyone that's interested.

By ches

October 4, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

As usual this is all about money. In this case I have to agree with the TW pitch. KXAN is suppose to get their revenue from advertising revenue, but because of the general decline in network viewers and their station's poor local rating, they can't make it without more cash from someplace. The problem is that I "pay for" KXAN by having to listen to their ads, so why should I have to pay again to have TW carry their signal. Maybe it would help if they had programming that more people wanted to watch. Ultimately KXAN is in a bind. They need the viewers that get their signal from TW to maintain their viewer base because a loss of these people will ultimately cost them in ad rates. It is just a matter of how long TW wants to hold out. KXAN can not afford to have a sweeps month occur and NOT have the TW viewers.

By Karen

October 4, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

I have a great idea! Michelle Valles should go apply at Time Warner for a management position that would require Lassberg to negotiate with HER. Then she can promise KXAN they will continue to work together like they promised her...only to punk KXAN at the midnite hour like they did to her.
Think about it Michelle. That would be a great way to get back at those creeps.

By John

October 4, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

LIN-TV has idiots running it. They broadcast a free signal. They make money based on how many people view their programs. So they want to make it HARDER for people to view their signal. They should be paying Time Warner, not the other way around. And the amount they want is beyond ridiculous. It's greedy and shows they don't care about the viewers. I agree with Time Warner to let them pull the signal. I only hope that TW can replace KXAN by rebroadcasting an NBC channel in San Antonio or Waco so we can at least get the programming. I'm not sure I'll watch KXAN again even if they put it back own now that I see how they treat their viewers.

By GaryS

October 4, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

I have seen a couple of postings asking about the possibility of Time Warner transmitting an NBC station from Waco or San Antonio. That would be a great solution. Unfortunately, Lin has an NBC exclusive agreement so transmitting a different NBC station is not allowed. Lin has Time Warner by the big ones. The only hope is that the KXAN advertisers revolt and demand their rightful discounts for significantly decreased viewers!!!!

By Susan

October 4, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

At 2.7 million Time Warner subscribers KXAN's request for "less than a penny a day per subscriber," comes to say about "less than" $27,000 per day per subscriber. At least that is what I just read in today's paper. Although I certainly did not read, hear or see anything about what that "less than a penny" calculated out to. Have you?!

By DoYouReallyCareWhatMyNameIs?

October 4, 2008 4:32 AM | Link to this

I recently switched to downloading network shows, after they air. No more commercials and no DVR hardware to lease. By the way, I think KXAN needs TWC more than vice-versa. Cable has one thing over over-the-air and satellite...more-reliable signal.

By Ellen Haley

October 3, 2008 8:57 PM | Link to this

As far as Time Warner - where we are in Austin, the service is wonderful. I've never had a problem with help when we have had an outage and the price we pay for phone, internet and cable beats the prices that friends pay to their cable company for just basic cable and internet. And we have had a number of people in our neighborhood LEAVE DirecTV because it never seems to be working right when you need it. In our part of North Austin all it takes is a strong wind and I had a friend calling me to tape a show for her. (At least until she switched to Time Warner.)

By jenny

October 3, 2008 8:46 PM | Link to this

We are Time Warner customers, not KXAN. We pay Time Warner. They should do whatever it takes to keep their customers happy. If they don't resolve this soon, I will take my business elsewhere.

By Ellen Haley

October 3, 2008 8:44 PM | Link to this

We don't pay for KXAN. What we pay for are the cable channels. Except for 1 college football game and 1 pro game I don't think our box has been down in the local channels in months. I certainly don't want to pay for a station that is to my family irrelevant.

By Mike

October 3, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

ATTN: KXAN...
Please tell your corporate bosses to at least allow an extension until you can work out an agreement that's fair for all. I understand that your ratings are tanking and you need to find a new source of revenue, but you really should think of your viewers instead of your bottom line.
Asking for over $90,000 per month in the Austin market alone is shocking in my opinion. How much advertising dollars is Lin TV going loose when they've lost 2 million viewers? Isn't a local network station's business model based off of advertising revenue? Or is it that your ratings are really that bad?
Stop shafting viewers! I live 45 miles south of Austin and can't pick up your signal on rabbit ears. I pay Time Warner Cable to bring me a clear, crisp picture and they do a great job.
I find myself compelled to seek out new programming choices and I'm sure my loyalty will be moved to a different network.

Regretfully,

MM

By Shelly

October 3, 2008 8:04 PM | Link to this

We cut the Time Warner cord years ago and went to Dish satellite. Best move I've ever made! TWC is worthless and it would be nice to see everyone start to boycott them.

By Mike

October 3, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Attn: KXAN
Please tell your corporate bosses to at least allow an extension until you can work out an agreement that's fair for all. I understand that your ratings are tanking and you need to find a new source of revenue, but you really should think of your viewers instead of your bottom line.
Asking for over $90,000 per month in the Austin market alone is shocking in my opinion. How much advertising dollars is Lin TV going loose when they've lost 2 million viewers? Isn't a local network station's business model based off of advertising revenue? Or is it that your ratings are really that bad?
Stop shafting viewers! I live 45 miles south of Austin and can't pick up your signal on rabbit ears. I pay Time Warner Cable to bring me a clear, crisp picture and they do a great job.
I find myself compelled to seek out new programming choices and I'm sure my loyalty will be moved to a different network.

Regretfully,

M.M.

By Joe

October 3, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Is it possible for Time Warner-Austin to carry the NBC station in San Antonio?

By James

October 3, 2008 7:17 PM | Link to this

Is there a 3rd party out there that can tell the public the truth about what's going on between these two companies? I called TW and got this long speil about how it's all KXAN's fault and KXAN's web site talks about how it's TW's fault! I'm ready to drop TW becuase of lousy service. My digital cable freezes and skips and they can only say your signal is good! I used to watch the news but not any longer because they're the only channel that doesn't broadcast in HD...all other locals do thier newscast in HD.

By GaryS

October 3, 2008 6:11 PM | Link to this

OK, so what if I decide to go with Direct or Dish. I have been satisfied with Road Runner for 10 years now. Can I keep Road Runner as my ISP and move my television to Direct or Dish? Also, I thought AT&T's service was reselling Dish? Which alternative is best?

By TEE

October 3, 2008 5:13 PM | Link to this

I have TWC and also like KXAN. TWC is very expensive and have very poor service. Over the last week my cable has been off/on. When I call TWC about it all they can say is there is an outage in the area. I drive around and cant find a truck anywhere in the area. Maybe now is a good time to look for another service provider.

By b

October 3, 2008 5:03 PM | Link to this

Retrain my brain? Don't think The Office is worth tuning in the Peacock?

Laugh much?

Signed,

Well-Trained Brain

By skrew em

October 3, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

the only non cable channel that's worth a $#!* anyway is FOX, KXAN can go to hell! oh damn, i'll miss jay leno..

By barbara

October 3, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this

I too will jump ship if this is not resolved very soon no matter who is 'at fault.' At more than $100 a month, I think Time Warner can see that we get one of the few local broadcast affiliates available with news teams. I will begin looking for alternatives within days.

By lunargyrl

October 3, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

tx chick - the audacity of you! Just because some of us still watch network programming does not mean we need to retrain our brains with something of VALUE. I am selective in the programs I watch, as well as ALL the activities in which I engage. Watching network tv is not ALL I DO and neither is blogging. I am a very intelligent person who lives an immensely varied and valued life (as many others on this blog), so get off your "high horse", Tx Chick - you're not any BETTER than the rest of us.

By Alpha

October 3, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

What kind of business is Time Warner running? First they could not negotiate a deal for the NFL network, now they can't do it for a local channel. That is pathetic!!!!! They continue to use the consumer as an excuse and they are over charging us anyway.

By DIANE

October 3, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

I only use Time Warner's Road Runner service. I was having trouble with my cable modem. I figured out the modem was bad and try to call them to have it replaced. After "talking" to their automatic service, I pretended to have a billing problem so that I could talk to a human being. I was told I could exchange the modem @ the local Round Rock office. I couldn't find it & called for directions. Guess what? They won't give out the phone number for the local office, and I was transferred. They also answered the phone with just a "Hello?". I had to ask if they were Time Warner. It seems they do everything possible to avoid contact with their customers. I have had DirectTV for over 8 years, with no problems.

By RICKY

October 3, 2008 4:18 PM | Link to this

I SWITCHED TO DIRECT TV WHEN TIME WARNER WOULDN'T PAY TO SHOW THE NFL CHANNEL, AND COST US A FEW COWBOY'S GAMES LAST YEAR. GLAD I SWITCHED, COULDN'T BE HAPPIER AND MY DIRECT TV HAS WORKED IN ALL THE STORMS WE HAVE HAD NO PROBLEMS AT ALL. THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE IS EXCEPTIONAL AND WE STILL GET KXAN THEY ALSO HAVE MORE HIGH DEFF CHANNELS THAN CABLE.
THANK YOU FORM AN EX-TIMEWARNER CUSTOMER.

By this tx chick

October 3, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

i agree with tommy. i'm surprised that people still watch network programming with all the other options; retrain your brain with something of value.

By Makes you go HMMMMM

October 3, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

What I find interesting, and what I have not seen anyone talk about yet is how hard KXAN / LIN have been advertising to TWC customers to switch to Dish Network or AT&T Uverse. Makes me wonder what kind of kick backs KXAN and or LIN are getting for hard selling these other cable providers. Just something to make you go HMMMMM!!!

By Joe Jance

October 3, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Get Dish or DirectTV. You will never regret the switch. More HD, more channels, less money. I get all the local channels, in HD off the air, through my Dish DVR.

The only thing I watch KXAN for is a few NBC shows. Their local news is pathetic. Is there anything worse than local news stations? You can get all your local news and weather online. The only time I watch those moronic buffoons on KXAN (or any other local news) is when I leave the TV on that channel by accident and the news comes on.

By Pete

October 3, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

The only thing I'll miss is John Madden on Sunday nights. Oh wait I can go to a sports bar for that. Otherwise I can watch all my shows online. So who needs KXAN, they don't even broadcast their news in HD. Good riddance!

By Sheila

October 3, 2008 3:12 PM | Link to this

Don't believe the RIDICULOUS commercials Time Warner puts out about Satellite. Since I switched to Satellite I have never been happier with my service. Time warner sucks and has to resort to misinformation to keep their market share.

By waaa waaa

October 3, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

1 of my 800 channels doesnt show up any more..waaa waaaaa, its a conspiracy! ...you mean i'd have to hook up some rabbit ears to get that 1 channel..the world is so unfair!!! what ever will we do? I dont think i'll be able to go on with this type of injustice in the world..waaa waaaaa

By anita

October 3, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

Would you guys just get this worked out?! The ones that are effected are not you, but us, the viewers! We are getting sick of this - just remember: we pay your bills. You guys are so greedy. Get a life: Your behavior proves that it's about money, not the consumer!! Didn't you two go to kindergarden?

By txchick

October 3, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

I agree with tommy. what qualifies as entertainment on network tv is lame and i'm usually surprised people still watch it. tune into something of value!

By waaa waaa

October 3, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

1 of my 800 channels dont show up any more..waaa waaaaa, its a conspiracy! ...you mean i'd have to hook up some rabbit ears to get that 1 channel..the world is so unfair!!! what ever will we do? I dont think i'll be able to go on with this type of injustice in the world..waaa waaaaa

By Carlos

October 3, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

Hey it worked for MTV, maybe it will work here.....I WANT MY KXAN!...so I can watch HEROES.

By BackOn

October 3, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

I don't care who's fault it is, the channel is off. Why are KXAN and Time Warner running ads to the public?.....like we care! You figure it out, just turn back on the channel!

By MAtt

October 3, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

KXAN is a joke. They are bleeding money because they suck, now they want us to pay for their broadcast. The know Time Warner will pass the bill to us. Time warner makes a bottom-line percentage profit like most companies do and therefore pass increased costs on to their customers. That doesn't mean they are evil I'm sure they would love to have their costs down so they could get more customers since only about 50% of the City has cable. KXAN has got a cable station complex and I'm glad TWC isn't negotiating with them. If they did, all the other stations will follow and soo we'll be paying 50% more for cable because of greedy money-losing local stations.

By Archie

October 3, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

I got away from Time Warner two years ago. I can't beliece anyone still uses the highest priced and no service Time Warner. Every time I gat a bill it was a little higher, a dollar here and a dollar there. I called and they said I could drop something so my bill would be less so I did them. I have been with Dish now and have had no problems at all.

By Steve

October 3, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

Call TW and ask them to get KCEN out of Waco/Temple/Killeen as a replacement. I was impressed when we had them on Seldomlink. Their news covers central Texas and had numerous stories from Austin.

By tx check

October 3, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

what a sad state of affairs. there are much better programs on cable. the educational value of cable far outweighs any local spin (news).

By tx check

October 3, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

what a sad state of affairs. there are much better programs on cable. the educational value of cable far outweighs any local spin (news).

By Jason

October 3, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

I've had Dish Network for over 5 years. I've gotten "rain fade" twice in that time. My friends who have Time/Warner complain about cable going out A LOT. I'll still watch KXAN on Dish.

By Barbara

October 3, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness for satellite TV. I disliked TW when I lived in Austin, had viewing problems with Cox when I moved to Leander and no viewing problems since I switched over to DirecTV.

By Barbara

October 3, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

Thank goodness for satellite TV. I disliked TW when I lived in Austin, had viewing problems with Cox when I moved to Leander and no viewing problems since I switched over to DirecTV.

By Pete

October 3, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

I'll only Sunday Night Football. Oh wait! I can go to a sports bar for that. Otherwise I'll just watch my shows online. Goodbye KXAN.

By Eh I will Stay

October 3, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

When I bought my house I tried to get U-Verse. The moron working for them said I could also get DSL so I could have a high speed connection for work. I waited two weeks, they finally called and said "Ooops! No DSL in your area you can get dial up". So I called Time Warner who I am not a fan of from my aparment days, got cable and road runner next day. It was too expensive to have just road runner. I watch NBC about twice a year so I could care less where it went.

By Gil

October 3, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

My Time Warner service (internet, cable and phone) are more important to me and my family then a single channel like KXAN. I already get my news from the web, most shows I watch aren't "old school" channels so I don't mind watching the few NBC shows (and I do mean few) on NBC.com through my TV. Guess the local advertisers won't be selling to me on KXAN.

By Jonathan

October 3, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Quite frankly, why would anyone still use Time Warner? They are terrible and terribly expensive. Go ANYWHERE else for your cable needs and you'll save money.

As for KXAN, thanks for interupting every primetime show over the last two weeks with that scroll at the bottom of the screen...that was real classy.

By 30rocker

October 3, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Just watch on NBC.com or rabbit ears. This won't last long, I'm sure. Calmate, everyone.

By Jason

October 3, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

which do people like better here DirectTV or DishNetwork??? I'm curious?? Thanks everyone! TWC is a joke they just lost me as a customer today, I get more channels, better HD on these 2 networks than I ever did with them, and Cheaper!!! Seriously TWC give it up! You are going to lose crazy amounts of money!!!

By austinights

October 3, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Did you hear the interview on KLBJ at 10:30 a.m. between Lassberg and Time Warner Rep. - pathetic! When asked if any other local networks were trying to garner this new type of contract with Time Warner - the rep. responded that only LIN was doing it. Lassberg's response was that it was "the new trend across America." More like "the fleecing of America."

By Darlene

October 3, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

Time Warner has only a few days to resolve this or we're going to AT&T Uverse. You can record 4 shows at once and it's SO MUCH CHEAPER. It's just such a pain to switch, I'd like to stay with TW, but if they can't carry NBC and the CW, I'm out. We've been loyal customers for 10+ years, watching them raise their rates and offer very few services, and maybe it's time to change.

Frankly, I don't care if they get an affiliate out of Waco or San Antonio, they just need to fix it, ASAP. I don't care whose fault it is.

By Nathan

October 3, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Get real folks. Value comes from BOTH content and delivery.

BOTH KXAN and TWC make money on advertising.
BOTH KXAN and TWC are in the game for profit.
BOTH KXAN and TWC would poke you in the eye for a nickel.

Don't cry for either station, just do business with whoever gives you the value you want as a customer and quit acting like either of these 2 companies has a non greed based point. There are alternatives here.

By Stephen

October 3, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

Haven't watched anyway since Michelle left. Good riddance.

By A

October 3, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

You can only use your rabbit ears until February, when KXAN - and all local stations - switch to to digital signals only. What then, KXAN?

By newshound

October 3, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

first they lose Michelle Valles now this what a bunchof greedy bozos! I hope someone steps in and fires the managment and hires someone who cares about Austin

By Tommy

October 3, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Who cares? We stopped watching Network programming years ago.

By GaryS

October 3, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

I'm sorry to say that Lin is just plain wrong! I like KXAN, but it is not that simple to just up and change from cable to satellite. Fact - KXAN does not pay for its signal. Fact - KXAN makes its money from advertising. Fact - KXAN advertising fees are tied directly to viewership. Fact - 40% of KXAN viewers are via Time Warner Cable. Fact - losing 40% of your viewers will kill KXAN advertising revenues - maybe not immediately, but eventually. KXAN will have to severely cut back or go out of business losing 40% of its advertising revenue. Hopefully, Lin will figure this out and negotiate realistically.

By shelly

October 3, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

like someone else said...I DON'T CARE WHOSE FAULT IT IS - they better work it out

they have one week - The Office, 30 Rock, Friday Night Lights, etc. - ONE WEEK or we're switching to AT&T

By BabyDuck

October 3, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

Network TV?? Are you kidding?!? Horrible stuff! If I care to see some KXAN goodness then I will drag out the rabbit ears. Not sure why there's debate or criticism here. LIN and TWC are free to negotiate (or fail to negotiate) whatever terms they wish. My TWC service sucks but it's better than the alternatives. I can still get LMN and HGTV so I'm not complaining too loudly.

By Jean

October 3, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this

This is just silly. I want to be able to watch the Today show, I've started my day with that show since I can remember! I pay for cable so I don't have to have rabbit ears and I don't have a computer that has the capability to allow for watching shows on the internet. NBC has the Super Bowl this year!!!! Both sides need to stop acting like 4 year olds and get this done!

By A Consumer

October 3, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

Note to advertisers: I don't see your ad when it is on KXAN.

Keep that in mind when deciding where your advertising budget goes.

By JT

October 3, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Even more reason to turn off your mind-controlling television. Let's all ride a bike, read a book, photograph something that appeals to you, or paint a picture to celebrate! No more fake outrage. Morph according to what you're presented with.

By S

October 3, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

I'm glad KXAN is off the air! Serves them right! I am not going to switch to some other form of cable just for one scuzzy station like KXAN! They had lousy weather forecasting! The anchors were a bore! We don't need NBC!

By Buda Resident

October 3, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

It's all about M O N E Y TimeWarner nor LIN care about the little guy. TimeWarner is the only cable provider in my area and I am being shafted. IF every signal is free then why is TW charging us, M O N E Y ! ! ! I just wonder what lame charges everyone will get come FEB 2009 from TW. Then everything goes to digital, will my bill go down, N O O O O , it will go up!!! I like my news and info, but I hate the companies we all must deal with. Ain't deregulation great!!! Horse and buggy days here we come.

By Jaycie

October 3, 2008 11:15 AM | Link to this

If any of you who are affected by this have access to Grande Cable, I VERY HIGHLY recommend them. I have NEVER had any problems with reception and have been thrilled with the prices. If I have to call for any reason, I can talk to actual human being! Customer service is #1 over there and it shows.

By sturat300

October 3, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

I put most of this on LIN. They had this same issue last year with Suddenlink, so this is not new to them, along with all of the other local networks do not get paid, so why should KXAN. If TWC paid them then they would have to start paying all the others when their contract came up and that would increase TWC fees. I don't think this will last long and hopefully LIN will realize this is not the time to try and make more money at the viewer expense.

By Tim

October 3, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

Once more, folks: it's NOT KXAN specifically. It's their greedy parent company, LIN.

KXAN has little to no direct control over this situation, and TWC is doing a disservice by telling viewers it's KXAN's fault specifically. It's LIN, not KXAN, who is the bad guy here, yet the poor folks working the phones and monitoring the e-mails at KXAN are likely taking a lot of abuse that should be going to LIN.

This is likely only happening at KXAN because they are owned by the worst, greediest station ownership group in the country.

By TRP

October 3, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

It's sad when we are paying for services that were "Free" before cable even existed. I am happy to not be feeding into "cable" services. It is a rip-off and waste of precious money. It's cheaper to rent or purchase videos per month. Drop your cable service and put the power in your hands, the hands of the people.

By ds

October 3, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

for 150$ a month TW can afford to pay KXAN. This is unreasonable that they remove service from the people paying them. If it is not resolved by next week I will jump ship.

By ATXGirl

October 3, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

This isn't just happening here, it's in several markets. TWC can't just pull another signal. Suddenlink pulled from Waco earlier this year, which pissed KXAN off, so they have a block against TWC from doing the same thing. I think the dirty advertising needs to stop and they need to come to an agreement out of the public's view.

By David

October 3, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Is Jerry Jones on the Board of Directors of Lin TV?

By kay

October 3, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

i woulk like to know why dish charges for 7,24,36,42 and this is coming up with time warner

By C

October 3, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

LIN is in the wrong on this argument for sure. No other affiliates (unless owned by LIN) are asking for this. You can watch KXAN for free, with a simple antenna. However, you may get a better signal when you have a cable provider. TW is not charging you for this signal, they are charging for the extras beyond your local affiliates. Is there a cable package available that only feeds consumers the local affiliates without add-ons? NO. that's b/c that would be free. TW is a cable company, they give us our ESPN, Discovery, etc. These are all paid for, as TW pays for their feed into our homes. LIN is getting greedy, if TW has to pay for their broadcast feed...than LIN should have to pay TW a percentage of their ad funds they recieve since essentially TW is broadcasting their local ads to 57% of Austin consumers.

By Big Al

October 3, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

LIN has no leg to stand on. Losing 40% of your viewers for a $1 million annual fee? Whatta bunch of idiots.

By mitch

October 3, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

As a customer, I don't care at all whose fault it is. Time Warner's suggestion that I'm supposed to watch NBC online is ridiculous. That can't be an answer to their failure to provide me one of the three major networks. It also means I'm paying them twice - once for them to not provide it on TV, and again for my internet connection.

By Mary

October 3, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

Time Warner is doing the public a service by carrying the "free" signal of KXAN/NBC. KXAN wants revenue for a free signal. Doesn't KXAN already get revenue from advertising on the station? What about other networks like ABC or CBS? Does TWC have to pay them to carry their free signal? This twist-your-arm tactics of KXAN over a free signal is not right. KXAN, you're already getting a revenue for ads, you shouldn't be asking for me revenue for a FREE signal.

By M,M.

October 3, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

C'mon. I pay $400/month for cable/internet/phone.
Give KXAN a penny!! TW will still get $399.99!
What greedy people. Now I'll have to switch cable companies, and go through all of the hassle because TW doesn't care.

By Judy

October 3, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

I also feel that we pay quite a lot to have TW Cable, more than AT&T is advertising for a monthly fee. I do not think its right that KXAN is pulled from our venue without input from the customers.

By Mcihael

October 3, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

KXAN touts there local involvement and community commitment. Well, as someone who can no longer view KXAN, I fell that LIN could care less about me or my community. I will no longer watch KXAN local news and when possible watch NBC shows online. It is just sad...

By smitty

October 3, 2008 10:05 AM | Link to this

I am amazed people even watch NBC. I guess not many people due, since they are now trying to get money from the cable co. 1 cent today it will be 10 cents in a couple years.

By JustJudy

October 3, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

TIME WARNER AND KXAN ARE BEING GREEDY! TWC CHARGES US A SMALL FORTUNE!

CAN'T THESE EXECS. COME TO A LOGICAL MEETING OF THE MINDS, OR IS THAT AN OXYMORON???

By Jim B

October 3, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

It is telling that KXAN is the only network channel in Austin that has yet to go high-def for their local news. Between that, the fact of the amateurish mistakes they consistently make on their newscasts, and the Michelle Valles debacle, it is clear that LIN is simply trying to be as cheap as possible while maximizing profits. I've been watching KXAN news for 15 years now, but I was getting fed up with how cheap and amateurish they are. KVUE's news looks so much better, and looks like it is produced by professionals - the only reason I was still watching KXAN was habit (and Jim Spencer). Well, that's gone, and they likely will not get me back.