Dish Network to Cancel RFD-TV????

Mike Brinkmeyer · Post by **Mike Brinkmeyer** » 11 Feb 2010 4:36 pm

I didn't know where to post this so I decided to start here. Maybe it should be posted in another area of the forum . . .

I received an email this afternoon from RFD-TV Network indicating that they are likely going to be eliminated from the Dish Network lineup this Sunday, February 14. RFD-TV apparently has bent over backwards in the attempt to please Dish and stay on but Dish will not sign a new contract. They are asking Dish subscribers to contact Dish and express support of RFD-TV in the effort to remain on the air but apparently at this time, things are looking bleak. Here is a link to the letter from RFD-TV with people to contact at Dish if you want to express your support of the network . . .

https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignP ... 86e82760f1

I personally hope this situation turns around as I do enjoy all the country music programming RFD-TV offers. As a Dish subscriber, I will be sending emails to the two Dish contacts in support of RFD-TV.

Rick Campbell · Post by **Rick Campbell** » 11 Feb 2010 7:15 pm

Why am I not surprised? Willie's place problems and now RFD. The sad part is that there's two or three country music channels on TV and you can't hear country on either one of them. I hope they get this worked out. Emails sent: "Simple, you remove RFD and I remove you from my home".

Charles Davidson · Post by **Charles Davidson** » 12 Feb 2010 1:18 pm

Rick, would it be easy to drop them. Saw something on the news about some of these networks in the very fine print in their contracts, there is a BIG fine if you drop them before your contract runs out. I really don't know I get RFD on my local cable. YOU BETCHA,DYK?BC.

Rick Campbell · Post by **Rick Campbell** » 12 Feb 2010 2:12 pm

Bama,

You are correct. Both Direct TV and Dish Network have the same contract. If you cancel early, you agree to pay a couple hundred $, just like cell phone contracts. Now, having said that, if they take channels away, like RFD, which is the reason I subscribed in the first place, I don't think they should hold me to it. But, what's morally right is not what governs this, it's whatever I agreed to and I'm sure they've got it covered. Did I read the contract, no, but that's my fault. No need for me to complain because I was a dumba$$. I had option to read it and say no if it didn't suit me.

Mike Brinkmeyer · Post by **Mike Brinkmeyer** » 12 Feb 2010 7:48 pm

Update - DISH Network/RFD-TV agree to 30-day extension . . .

https://app.e2ma.net/app/view:CampaignP ... 39aaddb495

Kevin Hatton · Post by **Kevin Hatton** » 14 Feb 2010 11:27 am

For every action this is an equal reaction. Proof positive that letter writing works. For anyone who tells you"what are you going to do?", walk away from them and take action! Let your voice be heard!

Bill Dobkins · Post by **Bill Dobkins** » 14 Feb 2010 1:21 pm

I tried a phone call but got a recording so I sent an Email. I sure hope it works.
BD

Johnny Thomasson · Post by **Johnny Thomasson** » 25 Feb 2010 12:56 pm

I sent an email to Dish Network, and actually got a reply from Dave Shull, the Senior Vice President of Programming. Of course I don't know how much it will actually influence the outcome, but it's kinda nice to know that someone with decision making authority actually reads these things, and takes the time to respond. I take it as a good sign.

----- Original Message -----
From: President of Dish Network
To: Johnny Thomasson
Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2010 2:26 PM
Subject: RE: RFD-TV

February 25, 2010

Dear Mr. Thomasson,

Thank you for your recent communication regarding contract negotiations between DISH Network and RFD-TV. We would like to assure you that DISH Network is doing everything possible to come to a fair and equitable agreement with RFD-TV.

DISH Network is dedicated to supporting our rural communities. Our roots -- our first and best customers -- are our rural customers. Based on these rural ties, we were the first national TV platform to launch RFD-TV. We will continue to bring you the best rural programming in America.

Every few years we go through contract renewals with our programmers. I am personally working closely with Patrick Gottsch to find a solution that allows us to keep our prices low while continuing to carry RFD-TV. Thank you for your continued business and patience throughout this process.

Sincerely,

Dave Shull
Senior Vice President of Programming

-------------------------------------------
From: Johnny Thomasson
Sent: Saturday, February 13, 2010 5:21:26 PM
To: Ergen, Charlie; Shull, Dave
Subject: RFD-TV
Auto forwarded by a Rule

I was considering switching from DirecTV to The Dish Network, and recently found out Dish is about to drop RFD-TV. That is one of my favorite channels, so I'll be staying with DirecTV. A lot of people, including myself, really like the programming on RFD-TV. I watch it mainly for their country music programs; there just aren't any other channels that show those, or similar programs. TruCountry, that started on January 1st, is the best country music program that has been on the air in years. RFD-TV programming covers a wide variety of interests other than country music that can't be found on any other channel.

I am in no way affiliated with RFD-TV; I just like many of their programs. I would carefully reconsider that decision were I in your position.

Sincerely,

John Thomasson

The Steel Guitar Forum

Dish Network to Cancel RFD-TV????

Dish Network to Cancel RFD-TV????

Update - DISH Network/RFD-TV

Reply from Dish Network