For Immediate Release                                                                                   
Contact: Kristin Tutino, (585) 258-0253

WXXI HOSTS LIVE CALL-IN RADIO AND TV SHOWS TO HELP EDUCATE ROCHESTERIANS ABOUT DIGITAL TELEVISION

(Rochester, New York) – On Thursday, January 22 WXXI will present a special DTV 1370 Connection on AM1370/HD91.5-2 and a live DTV~call-in show on WXXI-TV/HD. AM 1370’s Rachel Ward and Scott Fybush will host the special DTV 1370 Connection and will open phone lines to take calls from listeners from 12 noon to 2 p.m. on AM1370/HD91.5-2. Then at 9 p.m. WXXI presents DTV 101: Get the Picture on the Digital Transition on WXXI-TV 21 (cable 11) and WXXI-HD (cable 1011 and DT 21.1). The program will help educate viewers on the benefits of digital television, explain who will be affected by the transition, and what individuals need to do to prepare. Throughout the broadcast WXXI will air a message that appears on the bottom of any analog television screen. Viewers will only see that message if their television relies on an antenna and analog signal. The audience will also have a chance to call into the station and ask questions. Calls for DTV 101: Get the Picture on the Digital Transition will be taken at 1-866-348-9994.

On January 8, 2009 the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) selected WXXI Public Broadcasting as one of 12 agencies across the country to assist the FCC with its DTV consumer education program. These two live, call-in programs are part of WXXI's outreach initiative to help over-the-air viewers in the Greater Rochester area prepare for the digital transition. The initiative also includes a toll-free telephone help center, staffed by trained technicians and personnel. Consumers can all 1-866-348-9994 to have their DTV questions answered.

As one of only five public broadcasting stations selected by the FCC, WXXI was recognized for its ongoing commitment to helping Rochesterians prepare for the analog shut off. WXXI has been engaged in a program to build community awareness and understanding about the digital transition for the past year. With the FCC contract WXXI will build on the work it has already done, and dedicate more effort in reaching those who need help the most – seniors, citizens in rural areas, disabled citizens, and minority communities.

To learn more about DTV, visit WXXI.org/dtv. There visitors can read WXXI VP of Technology Kent Hatfield's DTV blog, visit a Q&A page, watch a series of informational videos, send in their DTV questions and take a DTV diagnostic test to see what they need to do to be DTV-ready.

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WXXI is the essential, life-long educational media resource for the Greater Rochester area. WXXI puts the community first with programming that stimulates and expands thought, inspires the spirit, opens cultural horizons and promotes understanding of diverse community issues. Log on to wxxi.org for more information about our services and programs.