MRVTV Launches HD Channels on Waitsfield Cable – Takes Leadership Role in Public Access TV
3/22/18 – For Immediate Release:
Mad River Valley TV and Waitsfield Cable have launched two high-definition (HD) channels for the local public access TV station.
MRVTV broadcasts locally generated programs with a focus on public, educational and governmental (PEG) programming. It will now have two HD channels, 244 and 245, available on Waitsfield Cable in addition to two standard-definition (SD) channels, 44 and 45.
The upgrade from SD to HD allows MRVTV to be a pioneer and take a leadership role in public access TV, as only a very small percentage of public access TV stations in Vermont and the US currently broadcast in HD.
“We are thrilled to have such a great partner in Waitsfield Cable to help us upgrade our station to HD and give community members a better platform to share information, opinions and stories,” said Keith Berkelhamer, Executive Director of the station. “High-definition has become the standard to broadcast and view TV today and we hope this investment in modern equipment will not only attract more viewers due to the improved picture quality, but more content creators and contributors.”
“MRVTV is a great community asset”, said Gregg Haskin, president and CEO of Waitsfield Cable, “and we are proud to support them.”
MRVTV spent approximately $60,000 on the HD equipment upgrade, a big investment for the station given its annual operating budget of $120,000. A crowdfunding campaign is currently underway to help raise money. Thus far, large donations have been made by the Rotary Club, Win Smith, President of Sugarbush Resort, and The West Hill House B&B.
Waitsfield Cable has also invested $18,000 to upgrade the equipment it needs to broadcast the HD signals for the new MRVTV channels.
MRVTV is still seeking an additional $4,000 so any individuals who would like to contribute are encouraged to visit https://mrvtv.com/donate. Donors will receive MRVTV branded beer glasses and coffee mugs or a gift from one of the campaign sponsors; Canteen Creemee, Vermont Yak Company and The Phineas Gage Project.
To support the higher annual costs needed to broadcast in HD, MRVTV has rolled out some new services, including a live streaming service that allows MRVTV to broadcast an event live to any YouTube channel or Facebook page administered by a business or organization. MRVTV is also now offering sponsorships.
Contact: Keith Berkelhamer keith@mrvtv.com and Lorraine Keener LKeener@WCVT.com