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Scripps Dishes Up Food Network-HD On HD-PRIME; One of America's Most-Watched Networks Goes High-Def Aboard Most-Trusted Distribution Platform

Posted on: Wednesday, 19 July 2006, 12:00 CDT

Enabling programmers to satisfy growing consumer appetites for high-definition television, SES AMERICOM, an SES GLOBAL company (Euronext Paris and Luxembourg stock exchanges: SESG), today announced Scripps Networks has launched its new Food Network HD channel aboard SES AMERICOM's HD-PRIME(TM) cable neighborhood and AMC-10 satellite.

Just in time for great summer recipes, Scripps has unveiled a tasty menu of fan favorite programming in HD. The launch of Food Network HD follows the successful April debut of HGTV HD. The HD delivery of both flagship networks marks the latest milestone in a new strategic relationship between SES AMERICOM and Scripps, which moved all of its networks, including HGTV, Food Network, DIY Network, FINE LIVING TV NETWORK and Great American Country (GAC), to the pair of HD-PRIME satellites (AMC-10 and AMC-11) last year. HGTV HD and Food Network HD will feature programming from sister channels, such as FINE LIVING and DIY, providing Scripps Networks' viewers with great exposure to new shows and the high-def experience.

"Every strategic move that Scripps Networks makes into HD, it's reassuring to know SES AMERICOM, with its reliable HD-PRIME programming distribution platform, will be there with us every step of the way," said Mark Hale, executive vice president of operations for Scripps Networks. "Food Network HD and HGTV HD represent two of America's favorite networks that should have nothing short of the very best delivery partner to help make sure our growing audiences can always catch the shows they know and love in HD."

"Scripps Networks is a true industry innovator, as it feeds consumers' passion for great programming in HD," said Bryan McGuirk, president of media solutions for SES AMERICOM. "SES AMERICOM is honored to be Scripps Networks' program distribution platform of choice, as we provide the reach and reliability synonymous with our HD-PRIME neighborhood and overall satellite fleet to enable Food Network HD and HGTV HD to entertain and inform audiences in unparalleled quality and clarity."

The HD-PRIME(TM) Satellites

AMC-10 and AMC-11 are all C-band satellites, which operate from 135 and 131 degrees west longitude, respectively. The two A2100 spacecraft, built by Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems, have been optimized for next-generation programming services, including high-definition channels. Each of the 24 transponders is supported by a 20 watt SSPA, delivering almost a 20% increase in power over their predecessors, Satcom C-3 and Satcom C-4. In addition, a higher level of on-board redundancy plus an in-orbit satellite protect the cable programming services. A third HD-PRIME satellite, AMC-18, is scheduled for launch later this year.

About SES AMERICOM

The largest supplier of satellite services in the U.S., SES AMERICOM is recognized as a pioneer of global satellite communications services. Celebrating the 30th anniversary of the launch of its first satellite, the company today operates a fleet of 17 spacecraft in orbital positions predominantly providing service throughout the Americas. As a member of the SES GLOBAL family, SES AMERICOM is able to provide end-to-end telecommunications solutions to any region of the world via a fleet of 40 satellites. In addition, AMERICOM Government Services, a wholly owned subsidiary, is dedicated to providing satellite-based communications solutions to both civilian and defense agencies of the U.S. government. With its combined operations, SES AMERICOM serves broadcasters, cable programmers, aeronautical and maritime communications integrators, Internet service providers, mobile communications networks, government agencies, educational institutions, carriers and secure global data networks with efficient communication and content distribution solutions.

Source: Business Wire

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