Because of its annoying propensity for regulating everything about the game right down to how players can celebrate touchdowns, the National Football League sometimes is sarcastically referred to as the No Fun League. So, of course, the Honolulu affiliate of
Because of its annoying propensity for regulating everything about the game
right down to how players can celebrate touchdowns, the National Football
League sometimes is sarcastically referred to as the No Fun League.
So, of
course, the Honolulu affiliate of ABC-TV, which broadcasts NFL games on “Monday
Night Football,” decided to keep pace with the humbug league and wring some of
the fun out of certain Kauaians’ enjoyment of the weekly sporting
event.
Bars and restaurants on the island aired televised live satellite
feeds of the games, which begin in the afternoon KT (Kaua’i time) but are
delayed on local TV here until prime time by KITV-channel 4. The local
establishments were satisfying the thirst (in more ways than one) of rabid
football fans for live Monday night gridiron action, while also making a buck
or two on bar and meal tabs.
No more. Under threat of legal action by the
Honolulu station, the eateries and watering holes on Kaua’i have punted away
the live football fun. Now everyone will watch the games at the same time and
on a delayed basis—except, of course, for the folks at home with satellite
dishes on their roofs. And who knows, maybe they’re next to lose the live
connection if the TV grinches can figure a way to control their viewing, too.
KITV was within its rights to block the early peeks at Monday football.
The games are a lucrative drawing card, and the station wants to protect its
interest in advertising revenue. Copyright law may have been in the station’s
corner, too. And KITV isn’t the only station to ever take such a hard stance.
One in Seattle had a long-running feud with purveyors of purloined “Monday
Night” broadcasts when the contests were delayed there.
So go ahead,
KITV. Be a spoil sport. At least the NFL loves you.
