Well, I took the advice from several people and called the D* eligibility department (thank you, dgordo), and sure enough, Ashley there told me that I AM eligible. I mentioned the story I was told, and she said well what he said does apply, except that I'm already in L.A. and should get the L.A. feed. I shouldn't get the NY feed. Go figure. Anyway, she turned it on for me already. Now I just need to get my receiver and new dish installed.
Thanks everyone!