New Cable Rate Increases

Monthly cable rates are going up again just in time for all your holiday shopping bills to start rolling in. These rate increases are for Comcast customers residing in Tennessee and Washington, DC. Residents of these areas can expect to see the higher cable rates on their January 2008 bills.

Tennessee cable rates are estimated to rise an average of 5%, while Washingon, D.C. will see rates rise an average of 4%. Over the last 7 years, cable rates for these areas have increased significantly. Below are just a few examples of the rate increases imposed upon residents in the affected areas since 2000.

Knoxville, TN - 53% increase
Nashville, TN - 40% increase
Chattanooga, TN - 60% increase
Washington, D.C. - 63.8% increase

Now, if your annual household income has increased by 60% over the last 7 years, maybe these increases aren't a big deal to you. However, my guess would be that this is not the case. Throw in the rising costs of gas, healthcare, and an unstable housing market and it can easily get overwhelming to keep up.

The good news is you have a choice when it comes to choosing your pay TV provider. Don't allow yourself to be bullied by Comcast into paying their ever-increasing, high cable rates. Check out the chart below and compare for yourself.



Dish Network from All American Dish really is the best deal around. To find out more information about Dish Network programming, or to order, please visit http://www.allamericandish.com or call 1-877-444-4388.

Free HD DVDs from Toshiba

Wow! Toshiba has a really great rebate offer going on right now. I had to read, then re-read the redemption information to make sure I wasn't imagining such a great deal.

Right now, if you purchase a qualifying Toshiba HD DVD Player (HD-A3, HD-A30, HD-A35) you'll receive 2 Free HD DVDs in the box. These 2 free HD DVDs will be "300" and "Bourne Identity." You won't need a rebate form to receive these.

"Ok," you're saying. "That's nice, but what's so great about that?"

This is where I quote the words of a famous infomercial guru, "But wait! There's more!"

In addition to the 2 Free HD DVDs mentioned above, you'll also receive 5 more FREE HD DVDs if you take a minute to complete the redemption form (correctly) and mail it in. That's a total of 7 FREE HD DVDs, which amouts to approximately a $150 value. Wow.

This would be a great way to jump start your HD DVD collection if you're just getting started. Or, for those of us that like to justify our purchases using "creative math", you can look at it this way. If I upgrade to the HD-A30 with the 1080p output, which AllAmericanDirect.com has priced at $399.99, and subtract the $150 I'm saving from not having to buy the DVDs separately, it's like getting the 1080p model for $249.99. That's $50 less than the HD-A3 720p model (AllAmericanDirect.com price $299.99). Now that is a really sweet deal...

To check out this special offer, and other great deals on HDTVs, DVD Players, Sirius Satellite Radios and a bunch of other stuff, just visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com.

Free Shipping on HDTVs + All TV Stands on Sale

Check out these great offers at AllAmericanDirect.com! Offers end on 12/18/07.

Receive FREE Standard Shipping plus, up to $500 Off on ALL HDTVs 37" and Larger. You'll find a great selection of LCD TVs, Plasma TVs and DLP TVs from top brands like Toshiba, Sharp, and Mitsubishi.

Don't forget to add a matching stand! All TV stands are an additional 20% Off.

To check out these and other great electronics deals, just visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com today.

How the Digital TV Transition will work with your analog TV

News about the Digital TV Transition occurring in 2009 is finally starting to get around. I know this because my technically-oblivious relatives have been asking me about it during our family gatherings this holiday season. Most of them have a vague understanding of what the DTV Transition is all about, but ultimately they were still left asking, "But how will the Digital Transition affect me?" I can only assume there are many others out there in the same predicament, so I thought I would lay it out here, nice and clean.

Good News! You don't have to part with your analog TV.
First, I would like to clarify one major point. Yes, you will still be able to use your old, wood-veneered, curved screen, analog, CRT television even after the transition occurs. However, your analog TV will only work with the aid of a digital converter box. Without this converter box, your analog television will not be able to pick up the digital signals using simple bunny-ears or a roof-top antenna. You'll have to cough up some cash to buy these converter boxes, but they are much cheaper than buying a new TV. You'll also need a digital converter box for each of your devices that only have analog tuners, such as an analog-only VCR or DVD recorder. Some households will qualify to receive up to 2 coupons worth $40 each toward the purchase of digital converter boxes. More information about the coupon program can be found at http://www.ntia.doc.gov/dtvcoupon/index.html or by calling 1-888-DTV-2009.

Cable and Satellite TV Subscribers
Cable customers will need to make sure they have a set-top box that can receive digital television signals, then convert the signals into the format of your analog television. If you are a satellite TV customer, you will likely only need to change set-top boxes if you want to upgrade to receive High-Definition (HD) programming. Viewing HD TV will require a television capable of displaying HD; your old analog TV will not be able to display HD quality signals.

You can still use your current antennas
If you're currently relying on a good VHF and UHF antenna to receive your television signals, either indoors or on the roof, you will not have to upgrade to an "HD Ready" antenna. This is because DTV broadcasters have been assigned channels in the VHF and UHF bands, between 54 and 700 MHz, where analog channels 2 to 51 are now. As long as a DTV signal is available in your area, your existing antenna should still work even after the transition is complete.

Of course, a change can be good...
If you're just looking for a good excuse to upgrade your current TV to a nice flat panel, like an LCD TV or Plasma TV model, you'll find them with built-in digital tuners. With a built-in digital tuner, you won't need a converter box. Careful though, some stores may still be selling models without built-in digital tuners. The FCC has mandated a Consumer Alert be displayed with any TV equipment with only an analog broadcast tuner. On AllAmericanDirect.com, you won't find any analog TVs, or TVs without built-in tuners.

For more information on the DTV and the DTV Transition, visit www.2009Countdown.com. Or for the government's official consumer site regarding the transition, visit www.dtv.gov.

Free Shipping on All HD TVs + Save 10% on all TV Mounts

Now until 12/2/07, receive FREE Standard Shipping on all High Definition Televisions at AllAmericanDirect.com. This applies to all brands of LCD and Plasma TVs, including Mitsubishi, LG, Toshiba, and Sharp.

Also until 12/2/07, all HD TV mounts will be an additional 10% off.

This is a great time to buy a new High Def TV for yourself or as a gift, and save on the matching mount!

To view all televisions and mounts, just visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com today.

Dish Network adds International Programming to qualifying package offers

Now more customers can qualify for Dish Network special offers due to some recent updates to the minimum package requirements.

Effective on or around 11/15/07, Dish Network satellite TV customers will be able to select from a variety of International packages as their core programming. Prior to this update, customers could only select from Dish FAMILY, America's Top 100, Dish Latino or higher packages as their minimum programming requirement. Customers wanting only International programming will now be able to qualify and sign up for the Digital Home Advantage, Digital Home Advantage-18, or Free-for-All.

Qualifying International Programming Packages include:
ARABIC - ARABIC ELITE SUPER PACK: $39.99/mo.
GREEK - ANTENNA PLUS 1: $32.99/mo.
POLISH - POLISH SUPER PACK $38.99/mo.
PORTUGUESE - BRAZIL ELITE PACK $43.98/mo.
RUSSIAN - RUSSIAN MEGA PACK $29.99/mo.
HINDI (SOUTH ASIAN)- MEGA PACK $54.99/mo.

To sign up for Dish Network International channels, or any other Dish Network packages, just visit www.AllAmericanDish.com or call 1-877-444-4388.

Free Shipping offer on High Definition Televisions and Sharp TV Sale

AllAmericanDirect.com has two great electronics deals going on right now through November 17, 2007.

FREE White Glove Delivery on Select HD TVs
Some retailers might give you free standard shipping, but AllAmericanDirect.com is giving you Free White Glove Delivery with select High Def TVs. That's a $250 value! With White Glove delivery, you'll get lift-gate service, inside delivery to the room of your choice, TV unpacking, and debris removal. Click Here to view all qualifying televisions, or visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com.

Sharp TV Sale - Save an additional $50 on all Sharp TVs
You'll find low prices on all TVs everyday at AllAmericanDirect.com, but Sharp TVs have been reduced even more! Save an additional $50 on all Sharp HD TVs, including Sharp Aquos, now through 11/17. Click Here to view all Sharp televisions, or visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com.

Dish Network Launches NBATV HD

Dish Network ads yet another HD channel to their lineup!

Effective October 29, 2007, DISH Network will launch NBATV HD into America’s Top 100 with DishHD (and higher). This service will be available on channel 9508 in MPEG4 and will map down beside its standard definition counterpart at channel 402. Please note that the standard definition version of NBATV, channel 402, is only available to customers with America’s “Everything” Pak or the Multi-Sport package, it is not available in America’s Top 100.



In addition to the offering in America’s Top 100 with DishHD (and higher), this service will be available as part of the NBA League Pass package at channel 9509 in MPEG4 (also at the 61.5° and 129° orbital locations). This service will map down beside its standard definition counterpart at channel 560.

For more information on DishHD or to sign up for Dish Network, visit www.AllAmericanDish.com.

Special HDTV Deal from AllAmericanDirect.com - Free DVD Player

Now through October 31, 2007, get a Free Toshiba SD5000 HDMI 1080i DVD Player with the purchase of any qualifying HDTV only from AllAmericanDirect.com.

Simply visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com today to view the list of all qualifying TVs, and to find great deals on HDTVs, DVD players and recorders, and Sirius Satellite Radio. You'll also find a great selection of TV mounts and stands, as well as Monster cables and accessories to make the most of your High Def set-up.

Happy Blog Action Day! What to do with your unwanted electronics

In honor of the first official Blog Action Day, I've decided to write about electronics recycling. As I was discussing possible topics with my friends and co-workers, the this issue kept coming up. It seemed like no one really knew what to do with their old televisions and computers, or other electronics once they were ready to get rid of them.

We all have a lot of fun keeping up with the latest computer, cell-phone and television technology, but we forget how extremely wasteful it can be. As we ditch our old devices in favor of the newest model, we're left wondering what to do with the outdated version we no longer have any use for. If you're like me, my old cell phones often end up forgotten about in a drawer. But, larger items, such as TVs and computers create a different challenge due to their size. So, the question remains, "What do I do with my old electronics items"?

Chromium, Cadmium, and Lead - Oh my!

Throwing out a TV creates much more than just aggravation for you. The average CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) Television or monitor contains 4 pounds of lead, depending upon size and make. Electronics items may also contain other hazardous materials such as mercury, hexavalent chromium (found in circuit boards, batteries and CRTs), and cadmium. When these hazardous substances are not disposed of properly, they can be released into the environment. Old electronics are also beginning to consume a significant percentage of municipal waste. According to a recent study by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electronics waste is already taking up 1 percent of the solid waste stream. And, according to a European study, electronics waste is growing at a rate 3 times as fast as other types of municipal waste.

What you can do about it - Reuse, Recycle and Reduce Electronics Waste

Reusing and Donating Electronics:

An easy way you can help reduce electronics waste is to donate your reusable electronics items. There are a ton of great places to donate your items, such as Goodwill, schools, and non-profit organizations. You'll not only be helping to preserve the environment, you'll also be benefiting your community by bringing technology to people and organizations that would not otherwise be able to afford or have access to the equipment. Also, don't forget to ask for a receipt for your tax records.

Another great way to get rid of your reusable items is to sell them at a garage or rummage sale. Many neighborhoods, churches and schools invite members to participate, or you could have your own.

Here are some examples of places to donate your reusable electronics.
Goodwill Industries - www.goodwill.org
Students Recycling Used Technology (StRUT) - www.strut.org
Learning and Information Networking for Community via Technology (LINCT) - www.linct.org
Materials Exchanges - www.epa.gov/jtr/comm/exchange.htm
Reuse Development Organization (ReDO) - www.redo.org

Recycling Electronics:

If you're not able to donate your unwanted electronics for reuse, you can recycle your old items instead. Recycling your electronics reduces the need to extract precious raw materials, as well as conserves the energy used in the manufacturing of new products. The best place to start looking for a place to recycle your items is within your local area. Your waste collection service may be able to pick up these items as part of household hazardous waste collections or special events. Otherwise, your best bet may be a local recycling drop-off center, TV repair shop, or recycling company (specializing in electronics).

Visit the sites below for help locating a recycling organization in your area.
EIA Consumer Education Initiative (CEI) - www.eiae.org
International Association of Electronics Recyclers (IAER) - www.iaer.org/search

A wiser, greener future

In order to truly make a positive environmental impact, and to gradually eliminate electronics waste, we need to change the way we consume electronics, even from the point of purchase. As consumers, we can choose to purchase environmentally preferable electronics over those that create excess waste and burn more energy. The number of products designed with environmental attributes will continue grow only if we show our preference toward these types of items.

Here are a few things you can look for when making your next electronics purchase.
• Fewer toxic components
• Recycled materials
• Energy efficiency(will display the"Energy Star" label)
• Ease of upgrading or disassembly
• Minimal packaging
• Lease or takeback options
• Recognized as environmentally preferable by independent certification groups

The EPA has a ton of great resources relating to electronics recycling if you're looking for more information. You'll find them at www.EPA.gov.

Find Energy Star rated HDTVs at AllAmericanDirect.com.

DISH Network® Launches TBS IN HD

Dish Network continues to improve upon their already impressive HD channel lineup. They just announced this morning the launch of TBS in HD, which is "the exclusive HD provider of the first round of MLB playoffs."

DISH Network® Launches TBS IN HD

Customers Can Now Watch Professional Baseball Playoffs in High Definition

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. – Oct. 8, 2007 – DISH Network®, home of the best sports and movies in HD as well as the best HD DVR in the industry, today announced the launch of TBS in HD, the exclusive HD provider of the first round of MLB playoffs. The channel addition brings DISH Network’s national HD channel count to 48 – the most offered by any other pay-TV provider in the country.

“DISH Network is committed to providing our customers with the HD content they want, and the launch of TBS in HD – just in time for the first round of the playoffs - is a home run for baseball fans,” said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. “We know avid sports fans enjoy catching the games in HD because it offers an exceptional graphic picture quality and stunning surround sound that best replicates live games.”

TBS in HD, a division of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., is one of television’s top-rated comedy networks. It serves as home to such original comedy series as My Boys, The Bill Engvall Show, Tyler Perry’s House of Payne, 10 Items or Less and Frank TV; contemporary comedies like The Office, Sex and the City, Everybody Loves Raymond, Family Guy, King of Queens, Seinfeld and Friends, with My Name Is Earl joining the line-up in 2008; specials and special events, such as Funniest Commercials of the Year and The Comedy Festival in Las Vegas; blockbuster movies; and hosted movie showcases.

TBS in HD is available on DISH Network Ch. 139 to customers who subscribe to DishHD.

The leader in high definition, DISH Network offers more than 70 HD channels including 48 national HD channels – the most in the industry – as well as HD local channels available in more than 50 percent of U.S. households, 22 Regional Sports Networks in HD and eight HD Pay-Per-View channels. DishHD is available free for six months to new customers, and new DISH Network subscribers may also receive a free upgrade to the company’s industry-leading and award-winning HD DVR receivers.

Right now, for a limited time, get Free Shipping on all Sharp brand HDTVs at AllAmericanDirect.com. Hurry! Offer ends 10/15/07.

Get Free Shipping on an HDTV and Support Breast Cancer Research

Now through October 15, 2007, AllAmericanDirect.com is offering Free Shipping on all Sharp brand HDTVs. This includes the stunning Sharp Aquos LC37D62U 37'' 1080P widescreen (16:9) LCD TV with built-in NTSC & ATSC tuner. Or, if you're looking for something larger, you'll want the incredible Sharp Aquos LC52D82U 52'' 1080p widescreen (16:9) LCD TV with built-in NTSC & ATSC tuner. Just visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com to check the rest of the Sharp HD TV lineup.

When you buy your High Def TV from AllAmericanDirect.com this month, you're not only saving money, you're also supporting a great cause. In honor of breast cancer awareness month, when you purchase any HDTV from AllAmericanDirect.com during October, including Toshiba, Sharp, Hitachi, Proview, and Mitsubishi, a donation will be made to support breast cancer research.

October is definitely a great month to buy your new High Definition LCD TV, Plasma TV, or DLP TV! Just visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com to view the complete lineup of High Definition Televisions and accessories, DVD Players, and Sirius Satellite Radios and accessories.

All American Direct Launches New Consumer Electronics Website, AllAmericanDirect.com

All American Direct, the sister company of All American Dish, a national sales partner with DISH Network, plans to launch its new website on Monday, September 17, 2007. This new site features various popular brands of consumer electronic products (such as televisions, DVD players, and other home electronics) and is being launched in order to help consumers make more informed purchasing decisions.

The website features new customer-friendly navigation, top rated products, CE related information and educational resources for the shoppers. It was developed from the viewpoint of consumers rather than retailers, showcasing a wide product selection including a variety of brands, sizes, stands, mounts, and accessories. It will even include a program that uses a series of quick questions to recommend the perfect television for the needs of the shopper.

All American Direct is an online reseller for manufacturers such as Sharp, Hitachi, Toshiba, Mitsubishi, and Sirius.

Please visit www.AllAmericanDirect.com for more information on special Consumer Electronic offers available only through All American Direct.


Press Contact:
Angie Commorato
press@allamericandirect.com
1-800-399-6495
http://www.AllAmericanDirect.com

Dish Network loses TV Chile; Adds TeleFormula to Dish Latino lineup

TV Chile No Longer Available – Effective October 3, 2007

Effective October 3, 2007, TV Chile, found on channel 842 in the DishLATINO package and above, will no longer be broadcast on DISH Network.

Starting October 3, customers may enjoy TeleFormula on channel number 858 which will be made available in the DishLATINO package or higher. TeleFormula is broadcast directly from Mexico and features news, sport news and entertainment 24 hours-a-day, with many of Mexico’s favorite stars. TeleFormula is exclusive via Satellite only on DishLATINO from DISH Network.

Sign up for Dish Network programming, including Dish Latino, at All American Dish.

4 New HD Regional Sports Networks Launched on DISH Network

4 New HD Regional Sports Networks Launched on DISH Network – Effective September 26, 2007

Dish Network just announced the addition of 4 new HD Regional Sports Networks, launched on September 26. With these new additions, Dish now has 22 HD Regional Sports Networks. Go Dish!

And, here they are...

CSN West HD:
Channel 359 – Teams include: Sacramento Kings

CSN Mid-Atlantic HD:
Channel 374 – Teams include: Washington Wizards, Capitals, DC United

FSN Ohio HD:
Channel 375 – Teams include: Columbus Blue Jackets, Cleveland Cavaliers

Altitude HD:
Channel 360 – Teams include: Colorado Avalanche, Denver Nuggets

DISH Network has the best in HD sports and is the leader in high definition with 70 HD channels, including 40 national HD channels – the most in the industry.

Looking for the best deal on Dish Network TV? Just visit AllAmericanDish.com to check out current Dish offers and promotions, and to sign up.

Dish Network Launches the Shop Latino Channel, SLTV

Effective Wednesday, September 19, 2007, the Shop Latino channel, SLTV, will be launched at the 110° orbital location on channels 220 & 883.

Shop Latino TV offers programming 24/7, 365 days a year, with an original format in which audience participation goes beyond simple purchases: a powerful variety of strategies have been designed to benefit not only the consumer, but also to give back to their community in different positive ways. Made by Latinos for Latinos we strive to position ourselves in the market not as a mere shopping channel, but rather as a gigantic store that offers every home an immense variety of top-quality products at truly attractive prices. For more information on SLTV, you may visit www.ShopLatinoTV.com.

To order Dish Network programming, please visit www.AllAmericanDish.com, or call us at 1-877-444-4388.

Big Ten Network games on Dish Network this weekend

If you're a Dish Network subscriber and you have the AT100 package or higher, tune into channel 439 to view the Big Ten Network. DishHD customers can view them in High Defintion.

Big Ten Network games for Saturday 9/16/2007*:
Citadel at (#7) Wisconsin - 12:00 pm ET
Buffalo at (#12) Penn State - 12:00 pm ET
Akron at Indiana - 12:00 pm ET
Duke at Northwestern - 8:00 pm ET

*Check local listings for air times

You can continue enjoying this free preview of the Big Ten Network until early 2008. After the free preview period is over, the channel will be offered in the AT100 Plus package within the 8 states with Big Ten institutions.

To sign up for Dish Network just visit www.AllAmericanDish.com or call 1-877-444-4388.

All American Dish Announces New Latino Website, DishLatinoOffers.com

Press Release
9/10/2007

All American Dish, a leading provider of Dish Network Satellite TV in the United States and national sales partner with DISH Network, launched its new Latino web site on Monday, September 10, 2007. This new Latino site is geared toward the rapidly growing Spanish-speaking and bi-lingual population in the United States.

DISH Network has long been the country’s leading provider of Latino programming, with over 35 quality Spanish language television channels to offer. To meet the demand of our nation’s largest growing population, All American Dish created DishLatinoOffers.com to make it quicker and easier for Spanish-speaking and bi-lingual customers to make their television viewing decisions.

All American Dish offers 4 main levels of Latino television programming packages to their customers: (1) DISH Latino, for only $24.99 per month, offers over 35 all Spanish language television channels; (2) DISH Latino Plus, for only $29.99 per month, offers over 35 all Spanish language television channels as well as 9 English language channels; (3) DISH Latino Dos, for only $36.99 per month, offers over 35 all Spanish language television channels as well as over 150 English language channels; and (4) DISH Latino Max for only $46.99 per month, offers over 35 all Spanish language television channels as well as over 190 English language channels.

Please visit www.DishLatinoOffers.com for more information on special Dish Latino programming offers available through All American Dish.

Contact Information:
All American Dish
http://www.DishLatinoOffers.com
1-800-979-1315

Dish Network launches Big Ten Network

Dish Network Satellite TV subscribers can catch two games in HD this weekend!

Dish Network will launch the Big Ten Network today, September 6, on Channel 439. If you're a current Dish Network subscriber, and get the AT100 package or higher, you may tune in to Channel 439 for a free preview through early 2008.

HD subscribers can catch two games this Saturday, September 8, on Channel 9467. You'll need to be able to view HD, which requires subscription to a qualifying Dish Network programming package with DishHD, along with the necessary equipment, including an HD receiver and HD TV. The anticipated launch date for the HD simulcast of the Big Ten Network is scheduled for September 12, but this Saturday you'll be able to view the Akron @ Ohio State game (12:00 pm ET) and the Syracuse @ Iowa (8:00 pm ET).

Chances are your cable provider doesn't offer the Big Ten Network. Get signed up for Dish Network today and don't miss any of the action! Just visit www.AllAmericanDish.com to sign up.

About the Big Ten Network
The Big Ten Network is dedicated to covering the Big Ten Conference and its 11 member institutions. The Big Ten Network provides unprecedented access to an extensive schedule of conference sports events and shows; original programs in academics, the arts and sciences; campus activities; and associated personalities. Sports programming includes live coverage of more major men's and women's events than ever before, along with news, highlights and analysis, all complemented by hours of university-produced campus programming.

With Dish Network Satellite TV programming, you'll get more High Definition channels than you could from any other provider, as well as additional sports coverage with qualifying packages. Just visit www.AllAmericanDish.com for more information and to sign up.

Upcoming Cable Rate Increases

Look for rising cable rates this fall for the following areas.

Houston, TX - Comcast is raising its rates 6.1% as of October 2007.

Harlan, IA - Your monthly cable rates are increasing as of October 2007.

Frankfort, KY - Cable rates are expected to rise again November 2007 with the addition of the Disney Channel. Basic cable will rise to $32.70 a month.


Save money by switching to Dish Network Satellite TV with packages as low at $19.99 a month. Get the best Dish TV deal at All American Dish, featuring free installation, Free equipment, Free DVR Upgrade, plus a bonus gift. Just visit www.AllAmericanDish.com to sign up today!

Free Networks with Dish Network Subscription

Limited Time Dish Network Special for New Customers

Looking for a great Dish Network deal? Right now, All American Dish is offering free networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX) for 12 months to qualified customers that sign up for Dish Network Satellite TV. Customers not qualifying for the free networks will receive a Free $50 Visa gift card after activation. You won't find these bonus offers with any other satellite TV provider - they are exclusive to All American Dish. Act quickly because these special offers won't last long!

To sign up for Dish Network and see if you qualify to receive the Free networks or $50 gift card, just visit www.AllAmericanDish today.

New Dish Network Offer

Looking for a Dish Network Satellite TV deal?

Dish Network recently updated their offer. If you're looking to sign up for satellite TV as a new customer, here is what you will get.

Free 4-Room Satellite Dish System
Free Standard Professional Installation
Free Activation (after credit on first month's bill)
Free 2-Room Receiver or HD/ DVR Receiver Upgrade (a $299 value!)
Free HBO & Cinemax for 3 months
Free High Definition Channels for 6 months with DishHD subscription

As always, all channels are 100% digital and there are no hidden fees. Cable can't beat that!

If you sign up with All American Dish, you'll also receive a Free $50 Visa Gift Card after you activate your service. All American Dish has the best Dish Network deal in the U.S. guaranteed!

How do you know if Dish Network is available in your area? That's easy! Dish Network Satellite TV service is available to anyone within the continental United States with a clear view of the southwestern sky.

Call 1-877-444-4388 or visit www.AllAmericanDish.com for more information or to order Dish Network.

Price for cable box may be increasing

Look out cable tv subscribers....

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - Cable companies are planning to charge more for set-top boxes to help pay for new, more expensive versions mandated by the Federal Communications Commission.

They say the price increases are a result of the government's push to spur competition for the boxes, which are required to receive digital programming and change channels. It's not yet clear how much the charges will rise.

The FCC has been trying for nearly a decade to open up the set-top market so subscribers actually buy their own and then use a cable-company-provided card to decode their programming. The retail market for the boxes, however, has largely failed to materialize and millions of consumers still rent the boxes from their cable company.

As of July 1, cable companies were required by the FCC to start shipping the new set-top boxes with detachable cable cards.

The companies have lobbied against the rule, saying the new boxes are more expensive. Consumer groups say it's yet another excuse for cable companies to raise rates.

And higher rates are definitely coming. Cable industry officials said even consumers using the older set-tops will likely be hit if the cable company decides to spread the cost to all box renters.

Cable operators won't yet say exactly how much more consumers will pay to rent set-top boxes. It's also unclear whether the fee increases will apply to cable cards.

Both cable trade groups have said consumers would see $2 to $3 more in monthly rental rates for the new boxes, but that doesn't take into account spreading the cost out to all box-renters.

Find the complete article written by the Associated Press here.

Stop wasting money on cable tv. Get Dish Network instead!

Dish Network offer to end soon

Dish Network programming offer scheduled to end August 14

If you've been debating on whether or not to sign up for Dish Network or not, you should act now. Your time is quickly running out to take advantage of their current offer.

Right now, when you sign up as a new customer, you will get $100 back on standard definition programming, or $200 back on High Definition programming. You'll also get free standard professional installation, free dish satellite equipment for up to 4 rooms, free 2-room HD/DVR receiver upgrade (a $299 value!), and free activation after credit on first month's bill. Plus, for a limited time, if you order Dish Network Satellite TV service from All American Dish you'll get a free $50 gift card after you activate your service. In addition to the great programming deal, you'll also receive free Premium movie channels for 3 months, and the Dish Home Protection Plan (DHPP) free for 18 months. Channel packages start at just $19.99 and are 100% digital. Cable TV can't beat that!

If you're looking for HD programming, Dish Network has the most HD available of anyone, including cable and other satellite tv providers. With the $200 money back offer, it's like getting DishHD FREE for 10 months. This is a great deal that can't be beat!

Just visit www.AllAmericanDish.com to sign up today!

Dish Network adds even more High Definition programming

Wow! Dish Network really does have more HD programming than anyone else out there, and with more on the way.

DISH Network Expands HD Programming
EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH Network(tm) satellite TV service have announced exciting enhancements to its industry-leading DishHD programming package.

On July 11, DISH Network will launch eight Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in high definition (HD) that feature game-only baseball content, including Fox Sports Network Arizona (Ch. 365), Fox Sports Network Northwest (Ch. 376), Fox Sports Network Cincinnati (Ch. 377), Fox Sports Network Pittsburgh (Ch. 378), Fox Sports Network Detroit (Ch. 380), SportsTime Ohio (Ch. 381), Fox Sports Network North (Ch. 386), and SportsNet New York (DISH Network Ch. 388). With the launch of nine HD RSNs earlier this year, these new additions bring DISH Network's total lineup of HD RSNs to 17, with more channel launches planned for Aug. 15.

Also on Aug. 15, DISH Network will add seven national HD channels to its DishHD programming package, including MHD, featuring music programming from MTV, VH1 and CMT; Golf/Versus HD; Animal Planet HD; The Science Channel HD; TLC HD; Discovery HD, and History HD, which will debut on Sept. 1. With these additions -- plus more planned for mid-September -- DishHD subscribers will continue to have access to the largest national HD lineup in the United States.

"No one currently has more national HD channels than DISH Network, and we're committed to maintaining that edge by enhancing DishHD with channels that exemplify the top-quality programming our customers enjoy," said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. "When it comes to high definition, DISH Network offers not only the best programming, but the best technology and value as well, including the only free HD DVR in the industry and, starting Aug. 15, six months of DishHD programming for free."

DISH Network's DishHD currently offers customers more than 200 hours per day of HD content from the nation's top programmers and is a $20 add-on to digital definition programming packages, including the DishDVR Advantage. The HD RSNs are available to customers who subscribe to DISH Network's America's Top 100 Plus programming with DishHD.

The highly-acclaimed ViP622 DVR(tm) is the perfect complement to DISH Network's extensive lineup of HD programming -- and it's free to new customers who qualify. One of the most advanced multi-room HD DVR receivers on the market today, the ViP622 DVR boasts the only true 30-second skip feature in the industry -- allowing subscribers to watch television commercial-free.



Click here to sign up for Dish Network and get the most HD channels!

FCC fines major consumer electronics retailers

Big Box Electronics Retailers Face Hefty Fines

Recently, the FCC began issuing citations to major electronics retailers such as Best Buy, RadioShak, Comp USA, Kmart and Circuit City, for failing to post warnings near their TV sets without internal digital tuners. If you recently purchased an analog television, the notice below is what you should have seen posted near the tv. If you're a retailer, you should make sure this statement is posted near every analog tv set to ensure compliance.

Consumer Alert

This television receiver has only an analog broadcast tuner and will require a converter box after February 17, 2009, to receive over-the-air broadcasts with an antenna because of the Nation’s transition to digital broadcasting. Analog-only TVs should continue to work as before with cable and satellite TV services, gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players, and similar products. For more information, call the Federal Communications Commission at 1-888-225-5322 (TTY: 1-888-835-5322) or visit the Commission’s digital television website at: www.dtv.org.

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To find out more about the analog to digital transition, read my previous blog entry or visit http://www.2009countdown.com/.

Find great prices on FCC compliant High Definition Televisions at http://www.allamericandirect.com/

Analog TV to Digital TV - The Digital TV Transition

The DTV Transition - Are you ready?

On February 17, 2009 analog broadcasts will cease to exist, leaving many without the ability to receive TV programs such as the news or their favorite shows.

I wish I could say there's been a lot of buzz around this particular topic, but I can't. So far, it' s been more like a dull hum instead. If you either feel as if you don't know as much information as you should about the digital transition, or don't know anything at all, don't feel bad. You're not alone. It has been proven a majority of Americans are not even aware these broadcasts are disappearing.

February 17, 2009 has been selected by Congress as the date all analog television broadcasts will stop, and stations will fully transition over to Digital Television (DTV) broadcasts. Since early 2006, most TV broadcasters have been sending both analog and digital signals. Once these analog signals are discontinued for Television viewing, they will be reused for public safety services such as emergency, fire and rescue, as well as advanced wireless services.

Unless you recently updated all your televisions, you likely are relying on an analog TV to view your programs, and receiving either free over-the-air signals with an antenna, or subscribing to pay TV services. When broadcasters stop sending analog signals, you will not be able to view over-the-air signals without obtaining a separate set-top box. These converter or set-top boxes are capable of receiving the incoming digital signals, and then converting it to display on your analog set. Without the aid of this additional equipment, you will not be able to receive free over-the-air digital broadcasts to any form of analog TV, including your small handheld TVs, or that small black and white tv in the kitchen. While these converter boxes will be relatively low cost, affording one may be difficult for some. In order to ease the burden for these consumers, the government has set up a converter box coupon program. This program allows a household up to 2 coupons valued at $40 each to use toward the purchase of up to 2 converter boxes. If you do not want a separate set-top box, your options are to either upgrade to a new TV with a built-in digital tuner or subscribe to pay TV services, such as Digital Cable or Satellite TV. Most newer TVs, especially those manufactured after March 1, 2007, have been equipped with built-in digital (ATSC) tuners to pick up over-the-air digital signals. If you currently are a Digital Cable or Satellite TV subscriber, you will be least affected by the transition. However, if you want to view Digital TV at its optimum capability, called High Definition, you will want to check with your provider to make sure you have the right equipment.

Read more about the Digital TV transition and High Definition at www.2009Countdown.com.

The Sopranos - A grande finale or major disappointment?

I didn't really intend to use this blog to write about entertainment related topics, but with the unexpected ending of the Sopranos final episode, I couldn't resist.

I'll have to admit, I didn't start really getting into The Sopranos on HBO until last year. By "really getting into" it, I mean intentionally carving out my Sunday evenings, cancelling plans, doing whatever it takes to catch the episode. Hindsight shows me it probably would have been a good idea to upgrade to the DVR... Prior to 2006, I was a fair-weather fan, tuning in only when it was convenient, crossed my mind, or the only thing "good" on TV. Thank goodness A&E has started re-broadcasting the earlier episodes. I can finally catch up on everything I missed!

Regardless of my viewing commitment issues, I was really looking forward to the final episode. Poised and ready on the sofa for a really great ending, my husband and I were debating which of the remaining characters were going to get whacked. Would it be Tony? Paulie? Would A.J. step up to the plate and join his father?

Then. Fade to black.

What?!?!

It left so many questions unanswered. Yet it also brought up a few of more, like "will there be a movie?" and "what was the significance of the fade out?" A few people I know believed Tony was shot. To support this theory, they pointed out in more than one episode, Tony repeated the question "Do you ever hear the one that gets you?", and his family would often reference his advice to "make the most of the good times". My interpretation is not as gloomy. I think the Soprano family was given a chance to continue on as they always have with new challenges, and problems. Carmela was seen looking over plans for a beach house. Would Tony finally stop cheating on his wife, and would they settle down to live a quiet, more modest existence by the beach now that both children are fully grown? A.J. and Meadow both seem happy, and are looking forward to promising futures. I prefer to assume Tony does not die, and instead gets to spend his remaining time (before his looming trial date) making the most of the good times with his family.

I guess we'll just have to continue guessing, or resolve to feel confident in our own interpretations. Thanks David Chase for a great run.


Get HBO free for 3 months with Dish Network

Cable rates set to rise in Santa Fe, NM

Monthly rates are rising for cable tv subscribers in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Rates are expected to rise 6.6% beginning July 1, 2007.

Cable Rate Increases

Cable Rates are set to rise for limited basic and full standard cable tv services on June 1 for residents of Worcester County, Maryland.

Wisconsin residents are bracing themselves for increases to their cable tv bills if plans continue to deregulate the cable market. Texas residents have experienced a 49% increase to their cable bills since 2005, despite new competition entering into the market.

Cable Rate Increases

Cable Rates are set to rise for limited basic and full standard cable tv services on June 1 for residents of Worcester County, Maryland.


Save up to 40% over your digital cable bill by switching to Dish Network.

Dish Network Launches MobileDISH

EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH Network™ satellite TV service officially launched the MobileDISH™ in-car satellite service, a programming package that combines cutting-edge antenna technology from RaySat™. The MobileDISH™ technology, which was showcased at the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show earlier this year, allows DISH Network customers to watch live satellite television from their vehicles, even while in motion.
“We’re excited to partner with RaySat because we know people today are always on the move and have a need for TV even while on the road,” said Mark Jackson, President of EchoStar Technologies. “The MobileDISH technology is just another example of how we’re providing our extensive line of cutting-edge technology and exceptional programming packages to reach our more than 13 million subscribers everywhere.”

The mobile satellite antenna, designed by RaySat™, mounts to a vehicle’s roof rack and provides hundreds of channels of all-digital DISH Network satellite TV with programming for everyone in the family. The MobileDISH technology is perfect for occupying the kids, monitoring weather and road conditions, keeping up on breaking news and watching movies on long road trips.

New and existing DISH Network customers can choose from a variety of programming packages that start at $29.99/month for the MobileDISH 100 package, and $42.99/month for the MobileDISH 200 package. The Starz Movie Pak can be added to the MobileDISH packages for $12.99/month, and the Encore Movie Pak may also be added to a MobileDISH package for $4.99/month. The MobileDISH technology is compatible with existing vehicles including most cars, recreational vehicles (RVs) and trucks.

Find out more about DISH Network programming here.

Pirates of the Caribbean in High Definition - Starz To Launch 3 New HD Movie Channels

Starz Entertainment President and Chief Operating Officer Bill Myers has announced plans to launch three additional high definition (HD) channels, bringing to four the total number of HD channels offered by the premium television company.

The three new channels offered in HD will be East Coast feeds of Starz Comedy, Starz Edge, and Starz Kids & Family. They will complement the existing Starz HD channel, which is available in East and West Coast feeds, (as well as the Starz On Demand HD and Encore On Demand HD services). The new channels are expected to launch by the end of this Summer.

"Starz has always been a leader in terms of offering our customers more ways to enjoy our great movies," Myers said. "We pioneered in digital transmission, multiplex, on demand and online. We will now be able to offer the largest package of HD movie channels of any widely distributed programming service, and the only one featuring first-run hit movies."

Myers noted that while the number of HD television sets sold every year has been growing, only half of HDTV owners use their sets to watch cable and satellite programming. Instead, he pointed out, they use their sets for other purposes, such as watching DVDs and broadcast channels. However, HD set owners that do subscribe to cable and satellite programming are among multichannel video's most valued customers in terms of ARPU (average revenue per unit). "Research shows that there is significant demand for HD content from the premium networks -- even more so than for sports programming. Our new channels meet the needs of the marketplace with movies, the top genre consumers are interested in for HD."

"Working with our affiliates," Myers said, "we will make a major effort to convince HD set owners that their televisions are good for more than just watching DVDs. With our great lineup of HD movies, On Demand HD services, and now with four HD channels, Starz is well positioned to spearhead those efforts."

Myers said that additional HD channels will roll out in the coming years as more programming becomes available from the studios in the HD format. "The three new HD channels together with Starz HD will present a robust lineup of HD content to satisfy our HD customers. They will be able to see such great films as Cars, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, and Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby in full HD."
Starz Entertainment is the exclusive subscription television and broadband provider of first-run films from leading Hollywood studios including Walt Disney Pictures, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Overture Films, Revolution Studios, Miramax Films, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, Pixar, TriStar, Screen Gems, Sony Classics and Warren Miller Films. Select first-run theatrical films from The Weinstein Company, IFC and Yari Film Group are also available for subscription television and broadband exclusively on Starz Entertainment services. A vast collection of classic and favorite titles are provided by a wide array of other Hollywood studios.

As one of the largest content aggregators in Hollywood, Starz Entertainment has access to thousands of theatrical films that it makes available on the Starz services and Vongo including Cars, Silent Hill, Sin City, The Wild, Hitch, The Shaggy Dog, and Click. Movies coming later in 2007 to Vongo subscribers includes, The Da Vinci Code, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, and The Illusionist.

Cable rate increases scheduled for May 1

Here's a rundown of the areas expecting a monthly cable bill increase as of May 1st.

Marshalltown, IA
Northern IA - Mason City, Des Moines
Pennfield Township - Battle Creek, MI
Shenandoah, IA
Daleville, AL

Know of any others? Please send me an email or post a comment.

Recall Notice - TV Mounts under Circuit City brand name

Flat Panel Tilt TV Mounts Recalled By Circuit City

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. (To access color photos of the following recalled products, see CPSC's Web site at http://www.cpsc.gov/.)
Name of Product: "Verge" Flat Panel Television Tilt-Mount BracketsUnits: About 9,900
Importer: Circuit City Stores Inc., of Richmond, Va.Manufacturer: Logitek (HK) International Co. Ltd., of Hong Kong
Hazard: If upward force is applied to a mounted television, the bracket's lock bar could unfasten. This could cause the television to fall and injure bystanders.Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled tilt-mount brackets for flat panel televisions are sold under Circuit City's private label, "Verge." The two model numbers involved in this recall are VPSW103M and VPSW103M2. "Verge" and the model numbers are written on the packaging. There is no writing on the brackets. The brackets were sold individually and through an installation package.
Sold at: Circuit City stores nationwide from September 2006 through April 2007 for about $180 for Model VPSW103M and $140 for Model VPSW103M2.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Circuit City has mailed free repair kits to those consumers it can contact. Consumers who have not received the free repair kit should contact Circuit City immediately to request it. Consumers can also request a free repair by a professional installer.

Time Warner raises cable rates for Albany, NY

ROTTERDAM-- Bills for some Time Warner Cable subscribers will increase next month.

Cost of cable rises at Time Warner Company says digital packages to increase $1.95 per month
By LARRY RULISON
Business writer
Friday, March 23, 2007

The price of three digital cable TV packages in the company's Albany division will go up $1.95 a month starting April 1.

The cheapest of the packages is now $57.90 a month, while the most expensive -- which includes four premium channels -- is $130.90 a month.

The price of most of product packages that combine two or three services such as TV, phone and Internet are also rising. The increases range from $1 to about $3 a month.

The ``All the Best'' package, for instance, which provides TV, Internet and phone, will increase from $126.95 to $129.90. The ``Watch & Talk'' package, which combines TV and phone, will go from $91.95 to $94.90.
Time Warner Cable is the dominant cable television provider in the Capital Region, with 440,000 customers. Increasingly, it has become a larger player for phone and high-speed Internet customers traditionally served by the phone companies.

Customers were informed of the price increases in their bills this month.

Peter Taubkin, vice president of government relations and public affairs in the Albany division, said Thursday the increases in the television rate reflect additional programming that has been added, including high-definition channels such as ESPN HD and MTV HD.

``Obviously, there's many commodities that increase in price but don't increase in capability or value,'' he said. ``We're always advancing and enhancing the product.''

Taubkin said the package prices are still relatively cheap when compared with buying the services separately or getting them from a competitor.

Officials frustrated with Comcast rate hikes - Greater Hanover and Gettysburg, PA

Officials frustrated with Comcast rate hikes

By MEG BERNHARDT
Evening Sun Reporter
Article Launched: 03/29/2007 10:15:12 AM EDT

Adams County cable customers upset with their service should not call their local municipalities, leaders have said this month.

"It's something we really can't control and it's unfortunate," said Cumberland Township Board of Supervisors Chairman John Gregor at Tuesday night's Cumberland meeting.

The township has been getting several dozen letters and phone calls complaining about rising Comcast cable rates that couple with the loss of three channels for basic service, Gregor said.

The same concerns were raised by municipal leaders around the county this month.

Gettysburg Councilman Bill Monahan has pointed out the complaints, but says the borough can't control fees. Similar complaints have been articulated by Fairfield Borough, Bendersville Borough and Butler Township, all of which reported fielding several calls from residents since the change in the fee structure and channel lineup.

Comcast bought out Adelphia Cable in July and gained control of cable in the Gettysburg area. In January, it increased rates by about 2.6 percent for the average customer and moved Hallmark, Court TV, Country Music Television, Oxygen and Shop NBC to the digital line up.

"We know and understand that channel moves can cause some customers discomfort, and they are difficult decisions for us to make," said Gabriel Weissman, a spokesman for Comcast. "Changes, such as moving channels to our digital lineup, allow us to increase space and flexibility on the network."

But many municipalities say the changes are unfair to the residents.

Fairfield Borough Council wrote a letter to Comcast dated Tuesday chiding cable company for cutting channels from basic service. It said the majority of Fairfield residents are of retirement age and on fixed incomes.

"Offering these channels on upgraded packages is of no use to individuals on fixed incomes, who enjoy the entertainment received but can little afford the increased cost," wrote Patricia Smith, the Fairfield Borough Council president. "Your company's actions have done nothing to endear itself to the local subscribers."

In Pennsylvania, local municipalities reach franchising agreements with cable providers, but since Comcast is the only one in Adams County, most municipalities have no negotiating power.

"We're between a rock and a hard place," Gregor said. "We could drop the franchise, but then a lot of people won't have television."

Comcast is a private corporation and determines its own fees and channel selection, he said.

Fairfield Borough is considering asking the Adams County Borough Association to take up the issue, but that's just an idea at this point.

Cumberland Township Manager Flo Ford said she's "asked, demanded and pounded on the table" for rates to be lower, but Comcast did not change its rates.

So if Adams Countians want a change, the best they can do is switch to satellite dishes or reception towers, officials said.

That's what Gregor is personally considering. And council members in Bendersville said they were also thinking of switching to satellite dishes.

"If we all (switched), it might have an impact," Gregor said.

Weissman said moving channels to digital has helped Comcast increase choices for the increasingly popular service.
"Throughout the region, the number of customers requesting new levels of service over the past few months alone has exceeded even our aggressive expectations as customers continue to understand the benefits of digital features," Weissman said.

Additionally, he said the price increase was due to "the increased value of our services and more than $215 million in investments in the region to provide advanced products and services, improve the quality of our products and enhance customer service."

"This investment also allows us to continually raise the bar on coaching/training for our technicians and customer representatives and to provide enhancements such as 2 hour service appointment windows, more late evening and early morning appointment times and more Saturday and Sunday coverage," he said.

Evening Sun reporters Matt Casey and Tim Pratt contributed to this story. Contact Meg Bernhardt at mbernhardt@eveningsun.com.

Mediacom Raising Cable Rates for Springfield, MO

Mediacom raising rates, cites business expenses

John Taylor
News-Leader

Mediacom is increasing its rates for cable services, but that hike will be smaller for existing customers, said Randy Hollis, the company's senior manager for government relations.The published rate of Mediacom's family-cable package, which includes basic and expanded-basic services, will increase from $48.95 a month to $51.95 a month, he said. However, those who already subscribe to cable service will just see an increase of $1. That information was not included in recent mailings to customers about the rate changes.

"All of us went through some devastation during January's ice storm. ... Through all of that, our customers were very understanding and very patient," Hollis said.

Mediacom customer Lloyd Cunningham said the rate increase was reasonable.

"I can't complain about it," he said. "I went out to the movies last weekend and spent more than I would on cable."
Bev Prochaska, who receives cable, phone and Internet services from Mediacom, said she plans to switch from cable to dish.

However, she indicated she is changing providers more because of Mediacom's service — and customer service — than because of the rate increase.

Hollis said rates are going up because "our cost of doing business continues to rise."

Those costs include fees paid to the different broadcast stations and cable networks as well as health-care costs for employees and the price of equipment.

The rate increase for basic service will be $3.76 per month. However, the expanded-basic rate will decrease 76 cents per month. Since family cable includes both, its published rate will increase $3.

Hollis said new customers might not necessarily pay the published rate because the company offers a variety of promotional packages to attract business.

Bills will include the rate changes beginning April 20.

Cable Rate Increase for Daleville, AL

City cable rates will increase

By Kara Episcopo
Sun-Courier Staff Writer
Mar 30 2007

City cable customers will soon be paying more for their cable service now that Daleville City Council members approved a hike in package prices and additional service charges during last Tuesday’s meeting.

City Cablevision customers will see an increase in their rates as soon as the next full billing cycle, which should be billed in May. The basic cable package rates will be increased by $2, raising the cost from $9.45 to $11.45 per month. Extended basic cable service will increase by $3 from $25.95 to $28.95 per month. Prices for each package upgrade after extended basic cable will be increased by 50-cent increments. Extended basic with one premium channel will increase to $37.45 per month and extended basic with two channels will increase to $45.45 per month from its original $41.45.

Extended basic with three channels will rise by $4.50 costing $52.95 per month and full package cable will rise to $59.95 per month.

“We’re still competitive with other cable companies,” said council member Ralph Chalker. “We’re much cheaper and we offer a quality product.”

In addition, the council approved a $25 initial hookup charge for new customers and an optional $4 per month wire maintenance program for new and existing customers. If customers opt out of the $4 per month fee, any maintenance for wire damage will cost $25 per incidence.

The $4 per month wire maintenance charge will cost customers a total of $48 per year.
“Ever since this cable was built, we have given our services away,” said Daleville Mayor Wess Etheredge. “We’re losing a lot of money without charging anything.”

The council also voted to charge $2 each per month for any additional converter box beyond the initial box to set up the cable service. Each additional remote, besides the first remote control, will cost customers 50 cents per month.
Because many customers upgrade and downgrade their packages often, the council agreed to charge a $5 fee for any type of change in the customer’s service.

The decision by the council to increase the rates came after the council appointed a committee to look into the future of City Cablevision last month.

The rate increase will help the city’s cable service pay for itself, something the service has not done since its inception in 1993.

The city initially invested $1 million to develop the cable system and has since then invested more funds to keep it updated.

The cable company earns enough to sustain its basic operation, but has never been able to generate enough revenue to pay its own debt.

Mid-Atlantic Sports Network Launches On Dish Network

Mid-Atlantic Sports Network Launches On DISH

EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH Network(TM) satellite TV service announced the launch of the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network (MASN), the television home of the Washington Nationals and the Baltimore Orioles.

"Adding the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network to our existing Regional Sports Networks lineup gives Nationals and Orioles fans all the more reason to subscribe to DISH Network," said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network.

"By combining the latest and most popular sports programming with the functionality and technology of our industry-leading digital video recorders, they will find multiple ways to enhance their viewing experience."

"We are pleased to have finally reached this agreement with DISH Network," stated Todd Webster, spokesman for MASN. "DISH Network recognizes the huge appetite for Major League Baseball in the mid-Atlantic region and has stepped up to the plate for its customers."

MASN, a 24/7 regional sports and entertainment television network, will feature up to 161 regular season Nationals telecasts and 162 regular season Orioles telecasts this season. Additionally, for the for the first time ever, the network is carrying 30-minute pre-game and post-game shows, providing fans unmatched access all season long. DISH Network customers who subscribe to America's Top 100 Plus and higher or Dish Latino Dos and higher now have access to MASN on channel 432 and MASN2 on channel 433.

DISH Network subscribers will be able to enjoy this programming immediately and are invited to tune in at 6:30 E.T. this evening to either channel 432 to catch the Orioles at New York Yankees or channel 433 to see the Nationals host the Arizona Diamondbacks. For more baseball action this weekend and all season long, subscribers should visit www.masnsports.com for schedules.

Dish Network Offering 7 Regional Sports Network Channels In High Definition

Dish Network Offering 7 RSN Channels In High Def

EchoStar Communications Corporation and its DISH NetworkTM satellite TV service have announced the launch of seven Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) in high definition (HD) that will strengthen DISH Network’s position as the leader in HD programming. Now avid fans in these seven markets will have access to their home team’s games in vivid HD and stunning surround sound.

“Sports fans have been driving the HD movement for quite some time now so naturally we’re excited to offer regional coverage of games and sporting events in this amazing and graphic picture quality,” said Eric Sahl, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. “Whether it’s baseball, basketball, football, college or professional, there’s no better way to watch all the action than in HD and DISH Network has a great sports lineup and the most national HD channels today.”

The seven HD RSNs launched today include Fox Sports Network Florida (DISH Network Ch. 373), Fox Sports Network Midwest (Ch. 368), Fox Sports Network West (Ch. 367), Fox Sports Network Prime Ticket (Ch. 361), Fox Sports Network Rocky Mountain (Ch. 364), Fox Sports Network South (Ch. 370) and Fox Sports Network Southwest (Ch. 366).

DISH Network will continue to explore carriage of additional HD RSNs throughout the year to enhance local HD programming line-ups. In addition to the seven RSNs announced today, DISH Network will begin offering Sun Sports and SportSouth this spring as well as Altitude this fall.

DISH Network offers customers an incredible value in HD sports programming including NFL Network HD, ESPN HD, ESPN2 HD, Rush HD, WorldSport HD, local HD networks in 29 markets and now these RSNs that will feature game-only content in HD. DISH Network also offers sports and HD enthusiasts a digital video recorder (DVR) to record their favorite programming and exciting sports moments, to control their own instant replay by pausing live TV and rewinding, as well as the ability to fast forward through time-outs, halftimes and commercials using a 30-second skip feature.

Subscribers who sign up now with DISH Network can get an industry-leading HD/DVR, the ViP622 DVR, at no upfront cost and can select from exciting all digital standard definition (SD) and HD programming packages.
New and existing subscribers can sign up for DISH Network’s DishDVR Advantage, an all-inclusive TV package with more than 200 all digital SD channels, local channels where available, a state-of-the-art DVR serving two TVs and free standard professional installation with no extra fees for one low price of $49.99. For only $20 more a month customers can customize their DishDVR Advantage plan with DishHD. The HD RSNs are available to customers who subscribe to DISH Network’s America’s Top 100 Plus programming with DishHD.

Cable rates going up in city and three area towns

By Doug Russell
News Editor
mcalesternews.com

Cable rates are going up in Longtown, McAlester, Savanna and Arpelar.

The reason, Allegiance Communications officials said, is to offset climbing programming expenses, retransmission costs and other operational costs.

In McAlester, the current $14.61 limited basic rate is climbing to $19.95, while the expanded basic rate is dropping from $24.75 to $23.

The limited basic rate in Longtown isn’t changing. It will remain $19.95 per month. However the expanded basic rate is going from the current $22.50 to $25.

The limited basic rate in Savanna is climbing $3, from a current $34.95 to $37.95, while Arpelar’s limited basic rate is going up $2.20, from $32.75 to $34.95.

The rate changes will take effect May 1.

The changes don’t include taxes, franchise fees or FCC user fees.

All prices and services, including programming, channel locations and packaging are subject to change.

Depending on levels of service or programming taken, additional equipment and installation charges may apply. Cable customers have to subscribe to basic service to get other optional services.

Customers can file complaints with the local franchise authority within 90 days of effective date of the rate change.

For more information, go by Allegiance Communications, 205 E. Cherokee Ave., or call (800) 455-6460.

So long analog...

If you've been looking for a good excuse to throw your outdated analog TV out to curb, the digital television transition occurring in February 2009 would be a good one. Ok, so you don't REALLY need a brand new TV in order to receive the digital signals, just a set top box and antenna, but just think about how great the picture quality would be...

Dreams of a new TV aside, the Digital TV (DTV) transition is really important. There are a ton of people out there that either don't know anything about it or don't know much. In order to educate the general population, the FCC has set up a corny, yet informative web site for consumers regarding the switch. Just visit www.DTV.gov. You'll also find the link under my Relevant Links.

To summarize, on February 17, 2009 all television broadcasters will discontinue analog broadcasting and transition over to digital broadcasting. There are many benefits to Digital TV technology including improved picture quality, its ability to efficiently transmit more information than analog, and it can transmit multiple standard definition digital TV programs at once. Even more importantly, switching over to all digital will free up valuable analog stations currently in short supply. These stations will be used by public and safety services such as emergency, fire, and rescue services. Until the switch occurs, all broadcasters will continue to transmit in both analog and digital formats. Customers most affected by the switch will be those solely relying upon “bunny-ears” or antennas for over-the-air broadcasting. Converting these digital broadcasts into analog format will require a converter box. Cable and Satellite subscribers may simply need to update equipment.

DTV is not the same as HDTV, or High Definition Television. HDTV is a form of DTV, but is the highest quality digital broadcasting available. If you're looking to experience the full potential of digital television, you need to subscribe to High Definition programming. I'll provide more on this topic later.

Public Officials Using Tax Dollars to Lobby for Higher Cable TV Rates

Public Officials Using Tax Dollars to Lobby for Higher Cable TV Rates— Tennessee municipalities are spending tax dollars to defeat cable franchise reforms that would, if enacted, lower rates and improve service quality for millions of Tennessee consumers. As detailed in a report released today titled Assessing the Case for Cable Franchise Reform by Diane Katz of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, the Tennessee Municipal League and its members are also employing false claims and twisted facts in their attempt to block the proposed reforms from winning passage in the Tennessee Legislature.

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