EchoStar and OLN Reach Long-Term Agreement; OLN Restored to DISH Network(TM) Customers
We understand that this has been a difficult period for our customers, and we thank them for all their patience. We look forward to a long relationship with OLN in which we can provide the network to our customers.
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. & STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 24, 2006--EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) and its DISH Network(TM) and OLN today announced a multi-year agreement which restores the channel to DISH Network customers. 
 

"It was important that we negotiated a fair contract, enabling DISH Network to remain a tremendous value for our customers," said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming. "We understand that this has been a difficult period for our customers, and we thank them for all their patience. We look forward to a long relationship with OLN in which we can provide the network to our customers."

"We are very pleased that millions of DISH customers can once again enjoy OLN's terrific programming," said Gavin Harvey, President of the network. "DISH and OLN belong together, and I appreciate the spirit of partnership that reconnected us. We look forward to serving our very passionate -- and extremely patient -- fans of the NHL, Tour De France, Professional Bull Riding, and the best hunting and fishing on television."

OLN returns to channel 151 in America's Top 180, DishHD Gold or any higher programming package. National Hockey League fans can now catch exciting playoff action including tonight's double-header involving the New York Rangers at New Jersey Devils at 7 p.m. (EDT), and the Colorado Avalanche at Dallas Stars at 9:30 p.m. (EDT). Visit www.OLNTV.com for a complete NHL playoff schedule.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 12 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network, the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last five years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.dishnetwork.comor call 800-333-DISH (3474).

About OLN

OLN (OLNTV.com) is the leader in competitive and adrenaline-charged content. Now in more than 63 million homes, OLN is the cable home of the National Hockey League and best-in-class events like The Tour de France, The America's Cup, Professional Bull Riders (PBR), the Boston Marathon and USSA Skiing. The network offers unique programming in four primary areas: Action Sports, Field Sports, Bulls & Rodeo and Awe-Inspiring Series, and is the exclusive home of Survivor in syndication. OLN, a wholly owned company of Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA)(NASDAQ: CMCSK), is distributed via cable systems and satellite operators throughout the United States.

 

Contact:

EchoStar Communications Corporation
Mark Cicero, 720-514-5065
mark.cicero@echostar.com
or
OLN
Amy Phillips, 203-406-2509
aphillips@olntv.com