WDRL 24

"Public commentary concerning WDRL-TV is all about GREED! Charter Communications and Millard Younts should be investigated by Dept of Justice & SEC and State Utilities Commission. Not to say their Lawyers should be DISBARRED. Take the 'Slick Adam Caldwell, Washington, DC & Steven Higgs of Roanoke', Lawyers, I would not recommend to anyone. What these 'TWO PIECES' of work did, was with their unhanded business practices destroying a small business helping the community of Roanoke. Looking over the Programming Contracts from Syndicators for WDRL-TV back in 2003-2004 appears to be cleared for both Markets (Roanoke & Beckley, WV). Charter Communications Lawyers have known for years they failure to read each contacts. All they were trying to do was run the legal cost up from $234,000 to over $1.1 million to cover Charter's Communications Lawyers (mainly Adam Caldwell) retirement funds. The Charter Communications has brought off all the Lawyers from WDRL-TV to take it down and destroying the former owners for their GREED! I guess this is the NEW way to SCREW PEOPLE! I hope Charter Communications & Millard Younts alone with ADAM Caldwell, and Steven Higgs ROT IN HELL!"

Mark Stafford, Danville, VA

"Charter Communications and Mr. Younts can eat shxx. The old owners of this wonderful station were great people and were very involved in the community, and the only station that cared about our kids enough to put local high school football games on TV.
I bet he won't do that and won't give a rip about the community... WDRL never did any business in WVA so why the hell did they have to go to there? I believe they were bribed!"
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Chris - Roanoke, Virginia

"Looks like Southside and the Roanoke Valley has lost our last chance to see any extended coverage of our local high school and college athletics. I was promised repeatedly month after month that they were going to be back on the air soon...that was right before football season started. Here we are 2 weeks away from Christmas and still NOTHING...just the same old scroll running across the bottom of the screen. Just be honest w/ everyone, give us an update. Let us know if there's any honest effort in trying to get the station back up & running or if we're left to listen to the radio & get an overload of Salem High School athletics. Its a real shame that we lost Dave Ross and his crew from TV, Shows how the all mighty $$$ can ruin a good thing for people in Roanoke. Thanks for nothing Charter. Thank goodness I have Cox Communications."
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Chris - Roanoke, Virginia

"My comments on WDRL-TV's, its a BIG LOST to our community. Charter Communication helped appointed a VERY INCOMPLIANT, Receiver -Millard Younts. Mr. Younts is very PROUD of what he help do in this case. He has promised the return of Religious Programming & High School Football & Basketball Games to WDRL-TV's air-ways. Now all his promises are all broken. Why? He & Charter should be ashamed of themselves. Both of these two really good parties are responsible for the downfall of our community TV Station. Remember WDRL-TV was operating for 17 years under the same management. What was wrong with that? Now you threw them under the bus! Now Charter feels like MNE the former owners should be denied bankruptcy in bad faith. I believe, that they should be in Bankruptcy Court here in Roanoke not in West Virginia, because MNE never did any business in WV. Their are other 20 parties who need protecting in this case, not just Charter & Younts. I still believe MNE's rights are being illegally validated by this Charter, Younts. These people are all BIGGEST Thieves in the world, and one day they will pay BIG TIME! My belief is, Charter & Younts are setting themselves up for a major Discrimination Suit very soon. This want be over for Charter for a long time to come!"

“I would like to express my COMMENTS of our wonderful people of Charter Communications. These so-called business people are out to get the small people in the business. WDRL-TV was our family's favorite TV station that served the African American Community. Now it's gone! Why, because of GREED from Charter Communications Legal Dream Team. This occurred back 3 years ago when Charter was awarded their Legal Fees. Note in the original contract between WDRL-TV and Charter had no legal fees written in the contract. Then they tricked the Judge in awarding these fees. After Charter was granted these fees they immediately modified these fees and added 28 additional GREEDILY Washington, DC Attorneys at $850 per hour for each. Which brought the Legal Fees from $275,000 to over 1.1 Million Dollars overnight? This was very underhanded move by Charter Communications. There was a ‘TO HELL WITH THE SMALL GUYS’ Attitude by Charter. These are some REAL MEAN PEOPLE; WDRL-TV is dealing with. The CEO of Charter should be in Jail for this underhanded task. Now Charter had a Receiver appointed to sell the License & Assets away from the original owners that really serve this community. This Receiver was given an operating station, now he has no funds to run the station. He admitted in Court in Salem, VA back in September 2010, 'He put the Station Dark'. Now Charter is stating WDRL-TV former owners put the station dark. Who in the World would believe such a thing! There’s 'NO DOUBT IN MY MIND' that Charter Communications set-up WDRL-TV into signing this so-called retransmission contract. One more comment, this case is a 'Long Ways' from being over for Charter. From what I have hear the former Employees have hired an Attorney to SUE Charter for Damages done to these employees. Now does Charter really think they could sell the License with all this going on? I know of (2) other groups whom represent the NAACP will file against any License Transfer to a new Buyer that should tie the License up for another 20 years or so. Anyone, whom was in the right mine, wouldn't touch this station. They should run away! And Charter's Senior Management should also run like hell!"

"In my overall view of Charter Communications actions against WDRL-TV since 2003: First, from what I read; back in August 2003 Charter Communications ask WDRL-TV to move its equipment from Giles County, VA to Beckley, WV. This request was emailed to WDRL-TV by Charter its Scott Depot, WV office. Charter then gave personal assistance to WDRL-TV to move the equipment to the new location in Beckley, WV. This new location was the Head end Operations in Beckley, WV. After, WDRL-TV got signed programming clearances for all Syndicators and CBS, the station told Charter it could use WDRL-TV programming for the Beckley TV market (Dec 2003). All copy write clearances was given from all programmer for Roanoke & Beckley, WV. 'FREE' for the station & Charter Communications by the programmers. Second, things of concerns are business connection to the State of WV. As to my understanding (1) WDRL-TV never opened an office in Beckley or anyplace in WV. (2) WDRL-TV never had and address in Beckley or any other place in WV. (3) WDRL-TV never had a telephone number in Beckley or any other place in WV. (4) WDRL-TV never paid any Taxes in Beckley or any other place in WV. (5) WDRL-TV never employed any person in Beckley or any place in WV. (6) WDRL-TV never had a business license in Beckley or any other place in WV. Third, how can a Judge of any kind rule WDRL-TV was doing business in WV? WDRL-TV never made on dime off of Beckley or the State of West Virginia. In my opinion there was never any business done in WV by WDRL-TV. What’s the business connection 'NONE'. From the Federal Communications Commission concerns, 'A Broadcaster is to serve the Public Interest as a Public Trustee'. This is to help any communities underserved. WDRL-TV is about minorities, which they served for nearly 17 years of broadcasting. Now Charter Communications has taken over WDRL-TV and push all the minority programming off-the-air. I do not think, it every return because Charter has NO INTENTION to do so. I my opinion, 'Charter doesn't like minorities'. Now, WE DO NOT HAVE A VOICE! Fourth, WDRL-TV applied for Bankruptcy in October 2010. The Judge in Roanoke ruled to have this case move back to Beckley, WV. First, when someone applies for Bankruptcy they should apply where they do BUSINESS. WDRL-TV has been doing business in the city of Roanoke, VA since July 1997 with Studios & Offices. So what is the reasoning to 'MOVE' back to WV? For the convenience of Charter! This should never be allowed it is very inconvenient to WDRL-TV; they applied for Bankruptcy where they do BUSINESS, in good faith for all of the creditors. Fifth, the communities Roanoke, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Danville have filed a formal PETITION with the Federal Communications Commission Office in Washington, DC with over 10,000 signatures and Emails to return WDRL-TV to the air-ways with the same programming by the former owners MNE Broadcasting filed by the Roanoke NAACP Office in August 2010. I really think CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS has taken advantage of WDRL-TV and has caused this MESS themselves in BAD FAITH."

"WDRL-TV is our station. I am highly disappointed and angry that it has been off the air for over 30 days. We need the station given back into the hands of the Eleazers. We need good decent family oriented programs back on in Roanoke."

"Please support good clean TV programming and restore local preachers to the air. We are not always able to get to church and local programs keep us close and informed. Thank you."

"As a minister, WDRL-TV has been vital to many members and individuals who can't attend worship services at a local church. The programming has been watched by many who may not have their voices heard. The Eleazers have benefitted many communities above measure. Please bring back WDRL-TV!"

"For quite some time I've enjoyed shows from your network. But the past few weeks there is nothing but a message moving across the screen. I guess I was wondering how soon you'll be back on the air and what happened."

Nicole Turner - Buena Vista, Virginia

"It amazes me that when something good is happening there are those in high places who will go to any lengths to destroy. WDRL is a wonderful outlet of positive information and positive telecasting in a system of so much negativity. Let WDRL accentuate the positive. Give it back to the valley!"

Rev. Travis Hariston - Roanoke, Virginia

"WDRL-TV has made an impact in this community with programs that edify the spirit, soul and mind. Allow the word of God to get to those people that may not or can not get to a church for whatever reason. Don't stop them from hearing a life changing word that would push them into what God has for them. Lets bring back WDRL-TV."

Vanessa Johnson - Lynchburg, Virginia

"WDRL station is a life saver. when I was very ill and could not go to church. their inspirational programming was instrumental to me and an up lifter. I am sure other people would agree with me. We DO WANT WDRL BACK ON THE AIR with their regular programming."

Darlene Keeling - Roanoke, Virginia

"A voice was given to the Black community and churches to correct the problems that exist in our world today from the Word of God. My Brothers and Sisters support the Eleazers and pray for them."

Minister Hazel Jones - Roanoke, Virginia

“I am writing to you concerning WDRL 24, of which I have been watching for some time, and all I get now on Dish Network is not to call them, because they are aware of it. Will WDRL continue broadcasting on Dish Network soon? Also will WDRL continue with the quality programming before the new management from Charter Communications? Thanks For Your Time In This Matter.”
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Christopher Smith - ?, Virginia

“I have been waiting for the Station to return to broadcasting. I looked forward to seeing the religious broadcasting carried on WDRL. Nel and Mel are wonderful to work with. They would go above and beyond the call of good salespersons as well as business owners. Not having the station on the air is a great loss to the community.”

Patricia J. Braxton – Lynchburg, Virginia

“We like to watch or that is have been trying to watch "Wild America" on WDRL via Direct TV here in Christiansburg. There has been blank air time at this time slot for the past 3 weeks, Sat 8 AM, We tried calling the station #'s but 366.2424 is not working, Any chance of getting this fixed? We know the station is under new management after some current financial issues.”
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CJ Silverman - ?, Virginia

Dear WDRL-TV:
“Are we, your viewing area going to get you back? If so, when? I really miss WDRL because I watched "Shepherd's Chapel" every day and also Joyce Meyers. It’s one of the best religious stations we had, along with other viewing interest too. I live in Hurt, Va. so best of luck and please come back on our viewing area.”

Lois Davis - Hurt, Virginia

Dear WDRL:
"I wanted to know -if next year you will have 'American Indoor Football Association' on WDRL or any other Indoor football. My e-mail is buffalofrits@yahoo.com. Thank you for your time. May God Bless You, In Jesus Name."
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Frits Brady - ?, Virginia

"Why are you not broadcasting on channel 14 at this time? I have been recording on my DVR the Shepherds Chapel from midnight to 5:00am each morning. The only thing I have seen on this channel over the last few weeks is WDRL-TV is not broadcasting at this time."

Ronald Rigney - ?, Virginia

"Was just wondering if the station was going back on the air and If you are looking at hiring new people, etc. I Noticed that it seems that no one is at the station at the Brambleton Ave. location now. I know that we watch the station a lot for ballgames and other things in the area just not receiving over the antenna and the cable systems say that they are not getting a signal."

Garland Oakes - ?, Virginia

"WDRL TV's spiritual messages and noteworthy advertisements are needed on the air. We want the Eleazers back on the air!"

Muriel & Melvin Bray, Jr. - Roanoke, Virginia

"I am a fairly new resident to this area. I do not subscribe to the Westerns channel, and I was greatly pleased to find such programming as "The Rifleman" and "The Lone Ranger" on WDRL daytime. It saddens me that an outlet such as this that provides clean family programming is now a blank screen with a scrolling message. Please bring back WDRL TV!!"

Stephen Clugston - Lynchburg, Virginia

“Will WDRL ever come back to directv? Thanks.”

Don McFarland - ?, Virginia

“Why is WDRL off the air? I find nothing on your website addressing the many questions and concerns about this. Thanks.”
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Steve Roberts - Forest, Virginia

"I like WDRL. I think the public needs to know why you guys are off the air!"

Robert Woods - Collinsville, Virginia

"I cannot believe that WDRL has been taken off the air ways. This station provided community and religious programming that no other station would provide. WDRL's owners were pioneers in doing this kind of programming. Many in the community want this station and its owner's foresight serving our community again."
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Debra Swain-Elliotte - Roanoke, Virginia

"I'm disappointed to see that theirs been a stand still of broadcasting especially for our religious broadcasting. It's very important to me and I know for other people as well. Please put WDRl back on the air. God Bless!"

David - ?, Virginia

"I liked watching the old TV show that WRDL shows. Why are y'all not showing on Cox Cable anymore? Are y'all planning on coming back?"

Patrick Mulligan - Roanoke, Virginia

"WOW, we truly miss WDRL and its programming. Not only clean and great shows, but got to see Deutsche Welle each night during weekdays at 10pm. World News and German News for us each night was a blessing over local, 'spun' news. Please come back and bring back the great selection and Deutsche Welle."
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Scott Repsher - Salem, Virginia

"WDRL is not broadcasting any programming at this time. Why isn't the local Friday night football game on at 10:00pm. Our local teams have played on WDRL forever. I would really like to know if the channel and the games will return."

Unknown - Salem, Virginia

"How long are you going to be off the air? I miss all of the spiritual and family programming that I used to watch. And if someone has limited basic cable, it is a bright spot in a place where the selection of programs can be dull sometimes. I watched you on Comcast, in Lynchburg, VA. I called customer service about this, and they said that they didn't know anything. I asked if another station was coming in to replace your station, and they said that they didn't know and weren't going to do anything about it.
The truth is, I don't want another channel. I want WDRL back. What is this anyway, some sort of attack on Christian Programming? WDRL had a lot of (at least) spiritual programming, and now it is gone. I hope that we get it back."

Linda Coderre - Lynchburg, Virginia

"Looks like 'GOOD OLD CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS' royally screwed WDRL-TV, and threw the owners into the street, WHY? The owners never did anything to anyone! They were only trying to serve 'Black People' in Beckley, WV. with programming for minorities, they couldn't get any other way! Now, Charter Communications slapped them with BIG COPYWRITE COSTS, and they let the 10 other outside market stations go 'SCOTT FREE' with no copywrite costs! This is so UNFAIR! If Charter charges one station copywrite costs, then it would be 'Fair' to charge the other stations these costs also! If Charter doesn't charge any station copywrite costs, now why would they center WDRL-TV out and make them pay for the other 10 stations. These other 10 stations are WDBJ, WSLS, WSET, WBRA, WPXR (Roanoke Market) and WCHS, WOWK, WSAZ, WVAH, WPBY (Charleston Market) These stations go SCOTT FREE of any copywrite costs! This is so Underhanded and UNFAIR by Charter Communications!
CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS SHOULD
BE ASHAMED OF THEMSELVES, one day
they will BURN for this!"

Jeff Holden - Roanoke, Virginia