Dish upping its local service

As of today, Dish Network will carry local television stations so subscribers to its satellite service won't need an antenna along with their dish.

Andrew Wyatt, general manager of KSWT, said he received confirmation of the service Wednesday.

At this time, Wyatt said, he's had no word from DirecTV on whether it also will begin offering local channels.

"They have my permission," he said. "I would love them to."

Dish Network and DirecTV could not be reached for comment.

Until now, subscribers to the two satellite TV providers have had to use an antenna to receive local stations.

But now, Dish Network subscribers can begin receiving the local programming with their dish receiver. Some customers may need to upgrade their dish to receive the additional signals, Wyatt said.

Customers will have to call to request the programming. Existing subscribers can call 1-888-284-7116. The phone number for new subscribers is 1-888-825-2557. For more information, customers can go online to dishnetwork.com.

Wyatt said it's his understanding there will be an additional charge for Dish Network's local package of $5 to $5.99, depending on other programming the customer receives.

However, he said, customers will receive a better signal for increased viewing enjoyment.

STATION IDENTIFICATION

Local programming will include both analog and digital stations carried by the local TV broadcasters. They are:

• KECY 2, the ABC affiliate, shown on local channel 5, will be Dish Network Channel 8420.

• KSWT, the CBS affiliate, shown on local channel 13, will be Dish Network Channel 8421.

• KYMA, the NBC affiliate, shown on local channel 11, will be Dish Network Channel 8422.

• KECY, the Fox affiliate, shown on local channel 9, will be Dish Network Channel 8423.

• KSWT 2, the CW affiliate, shown on local channel 16, will be Dish Network Channel 8424.

• KVYE, the Univision affiliate, shown on local channel 7, will be Dish Network Channel 8425.

• KECY 3, the Telemundo affiliate, shown on local channel 3, will be Dish Network Channel 8426.

• KAJB, the Telefutura affiliate, shown on local channel 54, will be Dish Network Channel 8427.

• KYMA 2, the LATV affiliate, shown on local channel 41, will be Dish Network Channel 8428.

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Joyce Lobeck can be reached at jlobeck@yumasun.com or 539-6853.