In recent weeks, the Arkansas Educational Television Network has been able to restore consistent program service to cable subscribers in Vilonia, Beebe, Cabot and Jacksonville Air Force Base as the result of a partnership between KTWN-18, Charter Cable and Suddenlink Communications.

AETN lost its KETS analog transmitter that served these communities when the KATV 7 tower in Redfield collapsed on Jan. 11 while undergoing maintenance procedures to replace several sets of large guy wires. The transmitter was the first in the AETN system, having been placed in 1966, and still served the network’s largest audience.

Most cable companies in central Arkansas were able to eventually switch to AETN’s digital broadcast signal. However, Charter Cable and Suddenlink Communications in these cities were unable to pick up that signal.

AETN has been able make a signal possible for this area with assistance from digital station KTWN-18, My Town TV, in Searcy. KTWN is able to receive the analog KEMV signal from Mountain View and retransmit it on their 18.2 digital channel, allowing the cable systems to convert the digital signal and broadcast it in analog.

"KTWN-18 is not receiving any compensation for providing this service but chose to help AETN because, as KTWN owner Kyle Reeves said, it’s the right thing to do," AETN Executive Director Allen Weatherly said. "AETN greatly appreciates the wonderful partnership with KTWN and the cooperation of both Charter Cable and Suddenlink Communications to help serve the people in these towns."

KTWN, part of the Crain Media Team, broadcasts four digital channels of content to over 600,000 people, including the towns of Searcy, Cabot, Jacksonville, North Little Rock, Sherwood, Beebe, Vilonia and Des Arc. Viewers in these areas may contact their cable company to voice their desire to see KTWN-18, My Town TV.

The Arkansas Educational Television Network (www.aetn.org) provides lifelong learning opportunities, improves and enhances Arkansans’ lives and celebrates the unique culture of Arkansas through its programming and services. AETN’s digital and analog transmitters and numerous cable system connections give it statewide reach.