MILWAUKEE -- WISN-TV (Channel 12) will broadcast the "Big Bang" fireworks display live, in high definition, on Thursday, June 29 at 10:30 p.m., immediately following WISN "12 News at 10:00." The 30-minute special becomes the first high definition local production by a commercial television station in southeast Wisconsin.

The "Big Bang" is a Summerfest tradition, kicking off the 11-day music festival on the shores of Lake Michigan. Hosted by WISN's Patrick Paolantonio and Caroline Lyders, the live special will be presented without commercial interruption.

"This is an ideal opportunity and the perfect live event to offer in high definition," said Frank Biancuzzo, WISN-TV president and general manager. "As we begin experimenting with more high definition productions, this definitely raises the bar in local programming."

WISN-TV, the ABC station in Milwaukee, is owned by Hearst-Argyle Television. Hearst-Argyle owns 25 television stations, and manages an additional three television and two radio stations, in geographically diverse U.S. markets.