Seeking Montana television access

To the Editor:

Two months ago we launched a petition drive for the right to watch Montana TV channels on satellite. We can't see them because federal law says our local channels are in Spokane, Wash.

We have collected more than 1,000 signatures and have resolutions from the Lincoln County Commission and the city councils of Eureka, Libby and Troy, all calling on Congress to let satellite subscribers choose between Spokane and Missoula-Kalispell. The next step is to present our materials to Montana's three congressmen, who are aware of our drive and seem willing to work with us.

In April, I wrote to the owners of ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX stations in Spokane and asked if they would support our effort to view our own Montana channels instead of theirs. Only KAYU, the FOX affiliate, had the good manners to respond. Its answer was, "no."

We don't believe Lincoln County residents should continue to be a captive audience for Spokane's broadcasters.

If this effort is successful, it will be because of the support we've received from our friends and neighbors in the county. Some residents asked for blank petitions and solicited signatures for us. Mary Duram, Eureka's city clerk, collected more than 350 signatures on petitions she set out at various locations. Most were full on both sides.

ACE Hardware in Libby and Stein's IGA in Troy allowed us to set up tables and collect signatures from their customers.

Now we need more help. Write or call Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester and Rep. Denny Rehberg and tell them you want the option to choose Montana Channels on satellite TV. That's all you have to say.

Jay Goley, Libby