The Dish Network News Blog

First off I would like to say Cheers to DIRECTV who has recently expanded its high-definition television programming at an increasing speed, but unfortunately my “cheers” are followed by “jeers”.  DirecTV customers are being given an ultimatum…either pay an additional $4.99 more each month or you will lose three of DIRECTV’s more popular high-definition channel lineups.  Beginning December 15th DIRECTV subscribers will lose viewer favorites like HDNet, HDNet Movies and Universal HD unless they agree to shovel out more money each month.  DIRECTV has created a HD programming package known as DIRECTV HD Extra Pack that will feature these channels for an additional $10.00 per month.

Unfortunately Directv customers, it doesn’t stop there.  In addition to viewers losing HDNet, HDNet Movies and Universal HD, DIRECTV is also planning on moving channels like Smithsonian HD, MGM HD and MHD (MTV’s new HD channel) over to their new DIRECTV HD Extra Pack.  Somebody needs to remind DIRECTV that they need us more than we need them.  Although DIRECTV is feeling a little money hungry other satellite providers like Dish Network are reminding its customers what real customer service is all about.  Dish Network is currently running an offer that allows customers to purchase a 200 channel plan for $49.99 guaranteed until 2009.  Dish Network’s new package dubbed the Dish DVR Advantage is an all-inclusive package featuring 200 of your favorite channels, including SIRIUS music and your local channels, plus 2-room DVR service and Free Standard Professional Installation. 

For more information on all Dish Network has to offer call 1-866-989-3474 or visit their website at www.dish-network.com.

For 12 straight years cable viewers have had to sit by and watch as cable companies raise rates.  In January 2007 Comcast raised their rates 4.1% and here we are only 10 months later seeing another increase.  Beginning November 5th Comcast customers will be forking over another 5% of their monthly cable charges.  You think that is bad, Comcast customers who just subscribe to basic limited programming will see a 12.5% increase on their overall monthly charges.  In addition, service and installation fees also are increasing, jumping 4.4% bringing standard installation to $47.50 per month. 

So much for cutting back and trying to save a little money for the upcoming Holidays.  Bottom line Com-costly customers, no matter what your package, you rates are going up, and given Comcast’s track record, I’ll be writing this same article again in the Spring.  Here is the good news cable viewers…we live in a technology advanced country where you no longer have to open your wallet to big shot corporate companies, you have a choice in your cable provider.  Satellite companies like Dish Network are now offering their customers a $49.99, no rate increase guaranteed until 2009 package.  With this all-inclusive package, you get over 200 of your favorite channels, including SIRIUS music and your local channels, plus 2-room DVR service and Free Standard Professional Installation. 

For more information on Dish Network call 1-866-989-3474 or visit their website at www.dish-network.com.

In case you haven’t already heard the good news, Starz Entertainment, a premium movie service provider who offers 16 movie channels and airs more than 1,000 movies per month, is teaming up with Dish Network.  Starz and DishNetwork will be offering an exclusive free preview weekend of their much hyped Starz Movie Pack starting Thursday, October 18th and running through Sunday, October 21. 

The free movie weekend preview provided through Dish Network will showcase nine different channels in the Starz Movie Pack ranging from Starz InBlack and Starz Cinema, to Starz Kids & Family.  The free movie pack weekend will feature Blockbuster hits like Open Season, the Holiday and the Guardian.  So whether or not you are thinking about roasting marshmallows in your fireplace with the kiddos or cuddling up on the couch for a date night DishNetwork is providing you with hours of entertainment filled with all your favorite Starz.