Converter opens up a whole new world (or at least a few channels)
As mentioned Sunday, I remain among the few watching TV without cable or a dish. But I am now in the world of digital television - and it's not that complicated.
I received the $40 coupon from the government and purchased a converter box (it cost me another $22) in preparation for the February 2009 nationwide switch to digital TV. The reception is terrific compared to what I was monkeying with before.
They are easy to hook up and it's only a tad complicated when editing your channels. But you pick up more channels, like three PBS stations, an all-weather station and some classic TV shows. But your elderly parents or in-laws who watch favorite shows through an outdoor or attic antenna will need help.
Gene Olmstead of Olmstead TV and Appliances in Batavia helped me understand how recording programs will change in the digital world.
Your current VCR or DVD player won't be able to record one program while you watch another - unless you get a separate converter box for that unit. Or you could buy a new digital VCR/DVD player/recorder. In the meantime, you can only record or set your VCR timer through the same channel you use for your digital box - Channel 3 or 4. And then you leave your converter box on the channel you want to record. It sounds more confusing than it is, but the bottom line is this - if you currently record a lot of programs while you are watching different ones at the same time, you will likely need new equipment in February.
Oddly enough, I am hearing that some are finding that a TV antenna and digital box is less expensive than monthly cable bills, and they intend to switch.
Far less paddling: Organizers of the Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race figure that a one-year hiatus was enough. The race, a Fox Valley tradition for more than 45 years, was canceled last year because of bridge construction and planners have settled for a shorter race this year.
Up until a few weeks ago, the starting point was Mount St. Mary's Park in St. Charles, but work on Batavia's bridge is forcing things to move south to the Batavia VFW.
The race, which used to start in South Elgin and end in Aurora, has endured high rivers, low rivers, stormy weather or bridgework. Those who mark their calendars for this event have embraced the concept that the picnics and parties along the shore and at the end of the race route in McCullough Park in Aurora play a key role. So a shorter route won't make the parties any less fun. Those interested in entering the Sept. 28 race have two more days to do so online at foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.
A barn burner: One of the most popular events for bargain hunters unfolds this weekend at the Kane County Fairgrounds, as St. Peter Church in Geneva hosts the annual barn sale. Not many events encompass the manpower and charitable efforts this one calls for - and people come in droves every year to enjoy it.
dheun@sbcglobal.net