I get a lot of e-mail asking when KAKE is going to broadcast news in HD? (High Definition) Most say something like, "I like your newscast, but after watching Channel 12 in HD, I can't seem to enjoy watching non-HD programing." I understand. I love watching television programs in HD. It's a far better viewing experience, and it really does make a big difference!

To be clear, almost all of ABC's programs are broadcast in HD on KAKE. However, local programs like our newscasts, are not broadcast in HD. At this time, KWCH Channel 12 is the only local station broadcasting news in HD. I'll be honest, I'm jealous. It's like the neighbor who gets that new car. It's so nice, and you have to keep bumping around in your old ride for a while longer. It's not junk, but you really want a new one like your neighbor.

This is not so much car envy, but HD envy. I also understand that when you watch a program in HD, it's hard to watch other programs that are not broadcast in HD. If a program is offered in HD and SD (Standard Definition), I will always watch the HD format.

KAKE is taking steps as we speak to be a fully HD station. We are now using HD cameras and editors, and our HD graphics system has been delivered. Making KAKE's transition to HD has been compared to a heart and lung transplant. We need studio cameras, weather graphics, a switcher, and more. It's literally like gutting an entire TV station and replacing everything. Cables, equipment, lights, etc, etc. It takes time and a boatload of money.

I can't give you an exact date, but we are planning to air fully HD newscasts in 2011. I can tell you that all of us at KAKE have been waiting patiently for this to happen. It's not easy to wait, but our patience is about to pay off. You will see a big difference in the quality of our newscast, and that will be worth the wait.