Dave Smith wrote:
>
> I received a letter from my satellite TV company the other day about how
> I need to upgrade my receiver because they are making some changes and
> after June one of my old ones would not work anymore. I called to see
> about it and was told about a special offer than I could get the new
> receiver at a special rate of $149.99 instead of the regular $199.99.
>
> I resisted offering to pay for it and explained that I had subscribed to
> something that provided equipment and service and that their changes
> should not require me to pay for a new receiver. I also said that the
> competition was trying to get me to switch to their service, which was
> true. Bell has been trying to get me to bundle my phone internet an d
> satellite, and they were offering lower monthly rate, a special
> promotional rate and two new receivers. The guy offered to transfer me
> to another department that might be able to help but I was running
> short on time so I said I would call back.
>
> I had lots of time today so I called that same number back. When the
> woman came on line I explained that I had looked at my options and
> didn't see paying to upgrade working for me, that I wasn't interested in
> paying to upgrade because they are changing. All of a sudden there were
> other options. The $150 receiver was now only $100. Even better, a
> lifetime free rental, which, she explained, meant that if I stop
> subscribing or if they go out of business I have to send the receiver
> back. I don't know who I will send it to if they go out of business.
>
> I keep hearing about what some of these companies will do to keep your
> business in a competitive market. It sure helped not to fall for the
> pitch the first time and to look into the options.

Good for you, Dave. All cable companies are greedy *******s, imo.