1-866-320-2126
HD DIRECTV Satellite TV is your source for the most in entertainment, sports and news television!
AT&T U-verse TV to Include Starz Content
San Antonio, TX (PRWEB) August 8, 2006 -- AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) and Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) today announced a distribution agreement to deliver Starz linear, high-definition and on-demand programming as part of the AT&T U-verseSM TV channel lineup.
Under the agreement, AT&T U-verse TV customers will have access to 18 Starz and Encore channels, including: Starz, Starz on Demand, Starz HDTV, Starz Edge, Starz in Black, Starz Cinema, Starz Comedy, Starz Kids & Family, Encore, Encore on Demand, Encore Action, Encore Love, Encore Westerns, Encore Mysteries, Encore Drama, Encore Wam, Retroplex and Indieplex.
Studies have shown that consumers satisfaction levels increase dramatically when they have the full complement of our channels, including high-definition and movies on demand. The Starz and Encore services will be an important part of the U-verse lineup of some of todays most popular television networks and content, said Dan York, head of programming, AT&T Operations, Inc. Movies have always been one of the most watched categories of programming. They are even more attractive when they are offered in high-definition and on demand.
SEG is delighted to be part of AT&Ts U-verse distribution platform, which will provide consumers with a variety of options to enjoy Starz and Encore programming, said Edward Huguez, executive vice president of affiliate sales and marketing, SEG. Studies have shown that consumers satisfaction levels increase dramatically when they have the full complement of our channels, including high-definition and movies on demand.
AT&T U-verse TV is delivered by Project Lightspeed, the companys initiative to expand the fiber-optics network deeper into neighborhoods to deliver U-verse TV, AT&T Yahoo!® High Speed Internet U-verse Enabled and, in the future, Voice over IP services. Through its subsidiaries, AT&T expects to reach nearly 19 million households by the end of 2008 as part of its initial deployment, using fiber-to-the-node (FTTN) and fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) technologies.
Financial and other terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Find More Information Online:
Podcasts:
AT&Ts delivers content in new ways -- Kieran Nolan, AT&T VP consumer marketing for broadband and U-verse
Media Kits:
U-verse -- AT&T plans to bring IP-based services, including video, to millions of customers.
Delivering the Digital Lifestyle -- Anywhere, anytime, on three screens: the TV, the PC and wireless phone.
Web Links:
AT&T U-verse Web Site
Starz Web Site
FTTP Wikipedia Entry
IPTV Wikipedia Entry
For more information contact:
Marty Richter
Office: (314) 982-1787
E-mail: mrichter(AT)attnews.us
Note: This AT&T release and other news announcements are available as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. is one of the worlds largest telecommunications holding companies and is the largest in the United States. Operating globally under the AT&T brand, AT&T companies are recognized as the leading worldwide providers of IP-based communications services to business and as leading U.S. providers of high speed DSL Internet, local and long distance voice, and directory publishing and advertising services. AT&T Inc. holds a 60 percent ownership interest in Cingular Wireless, which is the No. 1 U.S. wireless services provider with 57.3 million wireless customers. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and AT&T products and services is available at www.att.com.
About Starz Entertainment Group
Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) is a premium movie service provider operating in the United States. SEG offers 16 movie channels including the flagship Starz® and Encore® brands with approximately 14.6 million and 26.4 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment Group airs more than 1,000 movies per month across its pay TV channels and offers advanced services including Starz HDTV, Starz On Demand and VongoSM. Starz Entertainment Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation that is attributed to Liberty Capital Group, www.starz.com.
© 2006 AT&T Knowledge Ventures. All rights reserved. Subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. provide products and services under the AT&T brand.
For more information and detailed disclaimer information, please review this announcement in the AT&T newsroom at www.att.com/newsroom.
Author: Marty Richter
National Talent Search Schedule Announced for Shooting Star Competition
Starz in Motion, a promoting agency for entertainers nationwide, has announce the schedule for the Shooting Star national talent search, a competition looking for the next great singer or group.
Miami, FL (PRWEB) October 6, 2006 -- Prestige Promotions announced today the remainder of the competition schedule for the national talent search, Starz in Motions "Shooting Star".
The Auditions for the remainder of the 2006 talent search competition will be conducted in the following cities, before the start of the upcoming ABA Basketball League season as pre-season entertainment:
The remainder of this years talent search competition will be very fast-paced and thrilling, as we lead into the start of the 2006 ABA season. An exciting announcement will be made shortly on the Final competition. October 13-14: Mobile, AL - South Alabama Bounce Exhibition Game October 15-18: Orlando, FL - Orlando Orange Men Press Conference & Party October 21-22: Carson, CA - Carson Buzz Exhibition Game October 27-28: San Diego, CA - San Diego Wildcats Exhibition Game November 3-4: Chicago, IL - Chicago Rock Stars Exhibition Game
Aspiring singers and groups will have the chance to audition to be selected as a contestant in the Shooting Starz Talent Search Finals in Miami, Florida mid-November. The most talented contestants will be chosen from local auditions and invited to perform halftime at the local ABA game, where the audience will vote by applause to determine the winner.
Semi-Finalists selected from each city will be featured online at www.StarzInMotion.com, and invited to perform at the Final Competition in Miami. Winners will take part in the Starz in Motion Tour featuring winners and receive the opportunity for recording contracts, professional production of original music, and other prizes from our sponsors.
The first audition for Shooting Starz National Talent Search made its debut during the ABA Great 8 Championship Playoffs this past March in Rochester, NY, where the 6 contestants selected from the auditions competed during the ABA Championship Games halftime. The audience selected "The (Robinson) Krew" as the winner, to represent Rochester in the Finals. The following talent search competition was held at the NASCAR Fan Jam at Memphis Motor Sports Park on July 14, where Holly Hobbs was chosen as the Finalist to represent Memphis.
According to Angela Rizzi, the Executive Director of Starz in Motion, "The remainder of this years talent search competition will be very fast-paced and thrilling, as we lead into the start of the 2006 ABA season. An exciting announcement will be made shortly on the Final competition."
For more information on auditioning for the Shooting Stars National Talent Search or to see videos of past winners, visit www.StarzInMotion.com.
About Starz in Motion
Starz in Motion is a unique concept in promoting aspiring new talent. Talent searches are conducted in numerous cities throughout the United States, and discovered talent will be promoted through sporting event audiences and other grass roots marketing efforts.
Author: Angela Rizzi, Executive Director
5 Starz Travel Launches New Website
Specializing in Travel to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, Florida.
Fort Washington, MD (PRWEB) June 29, 2007 -- The website offers clients "do-it yourself" access to making their own travel plans or get customized travel arrangements with the assistance of travel Agent Niki Goins and other staff members.
Niki Goins of 5 Starz Travel announced today the launch of a new travel website for families, groups and individuals visiting Walt Disney World and the other theme parks in Orlando, Florida. "I wanted to give my clients an easy access to information online about the many vacations and travel packages for The Magic Kingdom, MGM/Disney, Epcot and Universal Studios Resorts and other theme parks in the Orlando, Florida area. Orlando has always been one of my favorite travel destinations," says Niki Goins founder of 5 Starz Travel. Ms. Goins recent Travels, Travel tips and other travel related articles can be found on www.grandvacations-getaways.com .
The 5 Starz Travel website is a full service travel site. If Disney World is not on your calendar for this year, you can get information and book travel for cruises, air, hotel, car rental, spas and other resorts. This also includes international travel. The site can accommodate all travel/vacations packages, from the budget conscience to the most luxurious.
Other items of interest on the website are:
Top Ten Travel Destinations - These are the 10 most popular travel destinations at this time. Check this often it is subject to change. Weekly Deals - Check here weekly to see the current offerings for getaways. Weekly Cruise Specials - Packages from 2 days, to 2 weeks, to 2 months are highlighted in this section. Sail on Celebrity Cruises, Carnival, Princess, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise line and Royal Caribbean International. Travel Resources - In this section check the U.S. Department of State Travel warnings and U.S. Passport fulfillment schedules. You can also get information on the weather, time zones and foreign currencies. Lifetime membership in the Travel Club.
5 Starz Travels mission is to provide prompt and efficient service in assisting our clients in making all of their personal travel arrangements.
Author: Niki Goins
Hollywood Awards Sets Pace for Awards Race
Hollywood Film Festival and Hollywood Awards announce new dates. Its outstanding to be the main sponsor of this festival, which is known for jump starting the awards season, and is a strong barometer of the films and talent honored throughout the year
Hollywood, CA (PRWEB) April 15, 2008 -- In their twelfth year, the Hollywood Awards(r) and Hollywood Film Festival(r), presented by Starz, announce their new dates and call for entries.
"We are very excited to be having our twelfth annual festival and awards from October 22 to 27 at ArcLight Cinemas. Last years festival and awards were one of the best yet, with our awards going to such Hollywood notables as Richard Gere, Marion Cotillard, John Travolta, Jennifer Connelly, Ellen Page, Casey Affleck, Ben Affleck, Marc Forster, Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, Diablo Cody, Christopher Hampton, Mark Isham, Stephen Goldblatt, Joe Hutshing, and Dante Ferretti among many other talented artists," Executive Director Carlos de Abreu announced.
"Its outstanding to be the main sponsor of this festival, which is known for jump starting the awards season, and is a strong barometer of the films and talent honored throughout the year," said Stephan Shelanski, executive vice president of programming and acquisitions. "Were also looking forward, as weve done for the past four years, to premiering one of our Hollywood themed original productions during the festival. The production that well premiere is part of Starz Inside, our monthly series of original specials, hosted by acclaimed film critic and author Richard Roeper."
This year the festival will be celebrating its twelfth anniversary, and it will include premieres, tributes, special screenings and hip parties. Over 100 films will be showcased. At this time the festival is accepting features, docs, shorts, and music videos. The submission deadline is April 30. For more information go to http://www.hollywoodfestival.com
"We are very proud that we have become recognized as a pre-Oscar(r) showcase, as well as a source for providing great networking opportunities for filmmakers looking for a break. The New York Times says that we are the first mandatory stop in the awards season," said de Abreu.
The Hollywood Film Festival kicks off October 22 for a six-day series of screenings and special presentations with Q/A sessions at ArcLight Cinemas in Hollywood. On October 27, the festival culminates with the prestigious Hollywood Awards(r), which honor established Hollywood talent, international talent and emerging filmmakers.
The festival and awards presenter is Starz Entertainment, LLC, a premium movie service provider operating in the United States. It offers 16 movie channels including the flagship Starz(r) and Encore(r) brands with approximately 16.3 million and 30.7 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment airs more than 1,000 movies per month across its pay TV channels and offers advanced services including Starz HD, Starz On Demand and Vongo(r). Starz Entertainment (www.starz.com) is an operating unit of Starz, LLC, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation that is attributed to Liberty Capital Group.
Festival Contact:
Hollywood Film Festival(r)
Hollywood Awards(r)
Ph: 310.288.1882
Author: Hollywood Film Festival
Kingdomchild Featured on Cover of Southern Starz Magazine's Winter Issue
He opened his groundbreaking and now world-watched international company called MoodTyme just 2 years ago. Though some may say time proves greatness and patience is a virtue, Germaine "Kingdomchild" Moody rewrites time to fit his timing. This month, he is featured on his first magazine cover.
Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) January 31, 2005 - The entire world has yet to witness the genius of rising multi-talented visionary and entrepreneur Germaine "Kingdomchild" Moody(CEO MoodTyme) but Renee' Ruby, publisher of Southern Starz Magazine believes that time has come. This month Moody is featured on the cover and inside the publication which is also the eyes and ears for talent, pageantry and modeling covering the southeastern United States.
From producing reputable industry conventions designed for launching aspiring talent in the right direction to providing and supporting scholarships that enable individuals to pursue their artistic and educational dreams, Southern Starz is making a positive impact in the lives of its readers. It's only fitting to include a young man that goes by the name "Kingdomchild" who's also discovering talent from country to country, exploring various business ventures and inspiring thousands while still maintaining an expanding, influential presence in Hollywood.
For a copy of the Winter issue or to subscribe to Southern Starz Magazine, please visit www.southernstarzmag.com.
Author: Derrick Alcott
Group101 Films Colorado, with Support from Thought Equity, Presents the Second Annual Best of Screening at Starz FilmCenter on June 20, 2005
The Second Annual Best of Group101 Films Screening, also known as the Directors Fortnight will be hosted on Monday, June 20 at the Starz FilmCenter at the Tivoli as part of the monthly Colorado Filmmakers Showcase hosted by Denver Film Society. Fourteen Colorado directors short films will be screened that evening.
Denver, CO (PRWEB) June 17, 2005 -- Thought Equity Management, Inc., a Denver-based leader in stock footage licensing and management services, is sponsoring Group101 Films Colorado. Destroying artistic inertia, Group101 Films Colorado is the largest content creator of short films in the state. Thought Equity supports Group101 Films by accelerating the exposure of filmmakers creative work to its worldwide network of film studios, cable and broadcast networks, and enterprise media companies. Thought Equity also provides cash donations to create resources for marketing and promotion of monthly screenings and offers the use of leading edge production equipment, such as High Definition Video Cameras.
The Second Annual Best of Group101 Films Screening, also known as the Directors Fortnight will be hosted on Monday, June 20 at the Starz FilmCenter at the Tivoli as part of the monthly Colorado Filmmakers Showcase hosted by Denver Film Society. Fourteen Colorado directors short films will be screened that evening. The following directors will be represented: Robert Cabrera, Lynn E. Nichols, David Cleveland, Patrick J. Sheridan, Siva Gopal, Alan Wartes, Cliff Gentry, Jason Jacobs, Michael Conti, Katharyn Grant, Eric Nichols, Mark Flett, C. Troy Fluhr, Bryan Alldredge and Todd Trudgeon, and they will respond to audience questions and comments. The screening starts at 7 PM. Visit www.denverfilm.org for more details.
Group101 Films Colorado has the sole purpose of breaking through artistic inertia, and supporting each directors commitment to make a short film once a month for six months. Putting an end to talking about filmmaking, and actually making films, over 30 directors have taken the challenge and subsequently seen their work screened monthly at Forest Room 5. Directors have been honored at The Denver International Film Festival as part of the Colorado Filmmaker Series, and others, are now embarking on their first features this summer.
"The Group" is composed of registered directors and collaborators. Over 200 Coloradoans have signed up online to support the directors as collaborators. They are cast members, screenwriters and technical crew.
About Group101 Films Colorado
Group101 Films Colorado was founded by Michael Conti along with nine hard working professionals in Colorados entertainment and media industries in 2003. We are an official distant chapter of Group101 Films Los Angeles, which formed in 2000. Group101 Films is the largest content creator of short films in the world with 1500 active directors. Visit www.group101filmscolorado.com
About Thought Equity
Thought Equity is headquartered in Denver, Colorado and is a leading supplier of footage management and stock footage licensing services. Customers such as cable operators, broadcast and cable networks, advertising agencies and film studios use the company's products and solutions to reduce production time and costs, accelerate their digital management efforts, and implement online distribution strategies that ensure maximum value and revenue potential of their motion assets. For more information about Thought Equity, visit www.thoughtequity.com.
Author: Michael Conti
Free Satellite TV Deals! -- Are They For Real?
I am sure you've seen these ads online and offline -- "Free satellite TV!" "Get a 4-room Satellite TV System Free!" and "Satellite TV Dish and Receivers Absolutely Free!" But are these deals really free? Are them worth for the money? But are these satellite TV offers really free?
The answer to that question is yes ... and no.
It's a 'yes' because you got the satellite TV systems for free. Further more you get other promotions gifts such as digital video recorder (DVR), DVD player, home theater systems and HD systems for free. As the ads say: No equipments to buy at all. However, the programming service will cost you money. Each month, these socall "free satellite TV deals" are going to take out some dollars from your wallet.
Let's examine the facts about free satellite TV deals.
Due to the demise of Pegasus and Voom services, there are only two major satellite TV providers in the USA -- Dish Network and DirecTV. Both companies are providing 100% digital satellite pictures; both companies are offering amazing free satellite TV systems; and both companies have the finest sales support team for their customer services.
Dish Network Satellite TV
When you order a free satellite TV system from Dish Network, you will be asked to pay a $49.99 activation fee. This fee will be credited to your programming bill, so in essence, your satellite TV system is free. Installation of your satellite TV system is also free.
With Dish Network you have the option to upgrade to a DVR (digital video recording) receiver, or an HDTV (high definition TV) receiver at no charge.
You can get Dish Network services at a monthly cost of $19.99. However, Dish Network standard programming fees start at $31.99 per month (for standard 60 program channels). The monthly subscription fees then goes up to around $86.00 for 230 channels including Showtime, Starz!, HBO, Cinemax, and Sirius radio.
Dish Network offers more movies, shows, and HDTV than cable or DirecTV, and with one of their free DVR receivers you can record, pause, and fast forward live TV with a click of your remote. All Dish Network programs are broadcast in digital format for crystal-clear picture and sound.
DirecTV Satellite TV Service
Depending on your credit rating, when you order a free satellite TV system from DirecTV you may be required to pay a deposit or prepayment. Because the deposit is refunded to you and the prepayment goes toward your programming fees, the DirecTV satellite dish and receivers are free. Installation is also free.
If you want a DVR receiver you will be charged an additional $49.99. The charge for HDTV receivers is $299.99.
DirecTV programming packages start at $29.99 per month for 115 channels (including 31 music channels), and go up to more than $90 per month for 185 program channels, including Showtime, Starz!, HBO, Cinemax, and 31 music channels.
DirecTV offers more sports programs than you can get with cable or Dish Network, including the popular NFL Sunday Ticket which Dish Network does not cover. All sports channels are broadcasted in all-digital format.
Wrapping things up
Both Dish Network and DirecTV's deals are lucrative. As mentioned before, you will get sets of satellite systems and home electronics for free but the programming services will cost you anywhere from $32 to $94 a month.
If TV is one of your primary forms of entertainment and you want the biggest variety of shows, movies, sports, and news -- then we satellite TV deals should be something you should seriously consider. Cable TVs nowadays doesn't looks like a good deal to go for as their monthly fees increase a lot every year. For football fans that wish to get every NFL games- DirecTV is what you are looking for; for normal family, Dish Network seems to be a better choice. You can check out some of the reputable dealers (both Dish Network and DirecTV) at here.
However, if you watch just a few television programs a week and have access to over-the-air TV, then satellite TV probably isn't for you.
About the author:
Teddy LC., expert writter on consumer products reviews. Check out his latest satellite TV related website and get more info on satellite TV dish TV free deals: http://www.satellitetvissue.com.
Author: Teddy LC.
Club Comedy Bar Starz Cast Films Focus: America's Nightclub Scene
Corner Stone Pictures Corporation today announced that Charlie Murphy (Chappelle's Show, Roll Bounce, CB4) has signed to play "Clay the Doorman" and "Arnie" key roles in Corner Stones upcoming film "Bar Starz," a wacky satire about the characters that make up America's nightclub scene.
Sherman Oaks, CA (PRWEB) September 29, 2005 -- Corner Stone Pictures Corporation today announced that Charlie Murphy (Chappelle's Show, Roll Bounce, CB4) has signed to play "Clay the Doorman" and "Arnie" key roles in Corner Stone's upcoming film "Bar Starz," a wacky satire about the characters that make up America's nightclub scene. The films Producer is Charles Picerni with Steve Perry Co-Producing and Kevin McKnight will lens the film.
Director Michael Pietrzak and casting director Jackie Burch cast Murphy along with Charlie Finn (Dukes of Hazzard, Super Troopers) as "Douglas," Derek Waters (Married to the Kellys) who will play "Barry," and Nikki Griffin (Dukes of Hazzard, The OC) will play "Pennie." Also Jana Kramer (Adam Sandler's new comedy Click), Jon Bernthal (Revenge of the Middle Aged Woman), Jayma Mays (Red Eye) and Kier O'Donnell (Wedding Crashers) were cast in the comedy. "I can't believe the cast we got! It's like American Pie, the first one. I'm really excited," said Pietrzak.
Executive Producers are Dale Scales and Reed Clevenger. Corner Stone will begin principle photography on Bar Starz October 24th 2005.
Corner Stone is also producing "Betsy's Kindergarten Adventures," an educational animated TV series aimed at pre-school children. Corner Stone Chairman, Charles Picerni, cites a recent survey of parents by American Business Research Corp that indicates a huge demand by parents for children's educational fare that is non-violent in nature. "Betsy's Kindergarten Adventures was conceived and produced to fit this bill exactly," Picerni notes. The series is currently in production and is expected to premiere sometime in 2006.
Author: Jon Knutson
ADVANTAGE®, Business Service Management Software from Magnum Technologies Lights the Way for Starz Entertainment Group VongoSM Launch
Magnum Technologies ADVANTAGE® Business Service Management Software monitors Starz Entertainment Group LLCs (SEG) entire IT infrastructure to give IT and Business personnel proactive insight into how technology fault and performance affects, and will impact, deployment of SEGs newly- released Vongo service.
Minneapolis, MN (PRWEB) January 11, 2006 -- Magnum Technologies® (http://www.magnum-tech.com), the leading provider of IT Business Service Management software, today announced its role as a critical enterprise-wide IT infrastructure monitoring software solution provider, which has enabled the successful launch of Starz Entertainment Groups Vongo service.
In order to successfully offer more than 1,000 movies and video selections and a live streaming Starz TV channel to subscribers using broadband or wireless-enabled devices, Starz Entertainment Group relies solely on Magnum Technologies Business Service Management (BSM) software for not only monitoring its infrastructure, but for also monitoring key services provided by its partners.
Magnum Technologies deployed ADVANTAGE®, a superior business service management and information technology monitoring system, that gave us the critical data necessary to adjust our infrastructure and processes in real-time in order to support our goal of the ultimate Vongo experience, said Richard Brownrigg, vice president of technology for SEG. A surprising benefit of ADVANTAGE® is its powerful ability to see issues in our partner environments that could ultimately impact the SEG business applications.
The ADVANTAGE® BSM system was deployed at SEG in order to detect and immediately notify operations and business staff of any technology issue that could ultimately affect the operation of the Vongo-branded entertainment system. Not only is the product currently effective in the real time performance monitoring of IT and its associated business impact, but it was also used during development to fine tune different portions of the infrastructure and partner integration prior to launch. This has enabled SEG to focus on Vongo end user performance, guaranteeing customers seamless wireless entertainment satisfaction.
The entire deployment of ADVANTAGE® Business Service Management software was executed with a focus on supporting the SEG rollout of ITIL best practices, said Gregory Crow, Magnum Technologies CEO. ITIL was one of the requirements which presented a need to create an industry first, real time dashboard view of how IT performance measures against true business goals. ADVANTAGE® is satisfying this requirement for SEG while monitoring their service level goals for the launch of their breakthrough Vongo entertainment service.
Success of the ADVANTAGE® BSM deployment was initially celebrated when system and database performance, as well as network loads, could be quantifiably measured prior to as a baseline of performance and again after full production cutover to the Vongo process.
ADVANTAGE® was installed with the vision of integrating with SEGs Remedy system so that when there is an incident within the IT infrastructure, a trouble ticket is issued. ADVANTAGE® can then decipher the threat of the incident and translate how it will impact the Vongo production process and ultimately affect subscribers from a customer care/billing perspective. Within seconds of this automated analysis, ADVANTAGE® communicates the severity of the infrastructure or partner incident to the appropriate IT personnel.
The ADVANTAGE® rollout within SEG was also leveraged as the system to measure and manage the performance of its Voice over IP (VoIP) installation and currently serves as a cornerstone for a future planned Configuration Management Database (CMDB) deployment.
About Magnum Technologies Magnum Technologies, www.magnum-tech.com develops software solutions that align IT operations with enterprise priorities. Magnums suite of automated management solutions includes DIAGNOSEIT®, COORDINATOR", CAP-TREND® and its flagship product, ADVANTAGE®. Magnums software solutions are designed to easily integrate with and enhance the effectiveness of existing management platforms by monitoring and measuring IT performance from a line-of-business perspective. Magnum Technologies clients include Fort Sam Houston, BRG and Starz. To learn more about Magnum Technologies, visit www.magnum-tech.com.
About Starz
Starz Entertainment Group LLC (SEG) is the largest provider of premium movie services in the United States. SEG offers 13 digital movie channels including the flagship Starz® and Encore® channels with approximately 14 million and 25 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment Group airs more than 750 movies per month across its pay TV channels and is a forerunner in offering its subscribers advanced services such as Starz HDTV, Starz On Demand® and VongoSM. Starz Entertainment Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NYSE: L, LMCb), www.starz.com.
Author: Jolina Pettice
How Satellite TV Works
Digital high definition satellite television is increasing in popularity, with Dish Network recently reporting crossing the 12 million subscriber threshold and growing, and there are probably more uninformed as to actual workings of satellite TV than informed. How does Dish Network make television programming so realistic in image and sound?
Dish Network, owned and operated by EchoStar Communications, receives digital satellite signals from their fleet of nine satellites. Plans are underway at present for EchoStar to launch their tenth satellite this month - February - increasing their ability to bring you more and better entertainment. Communications/television satellites orbit synchronously at an elevation of about 22,000 miles above the Earth remaining over certain land masses/areas so that a receiver dish can remain stationary on the side of a home or in a yard. The advanced research and growth of Dish Network is directly attributed to their continued enhancements in the area of home entertainment programming.
Dish Network obtains select programming from providers like Life Time, HBO, CNN, ESPN, Cinemax, Showtime, STARZ, and other sources. These providers, also known as 'uplink' sites initially beam their signals to the satellites. Dish Network's, whose broadcast facility is located in Colorado, satellites then digitize the signaling for quality, encrypt the signals, and then transmit a digital high definition rebroadcast to installed receivers in subscriber homes providing the best in home entertainment services. Each satellite has what is called a target area or 'footprint', and programming from a given satellite can only be received within that particular target area or 'footprint'. The 1980's and 1990's dish receivers were huge, some being about 10 feet in diameter, but now it is completely portable so it is easy to take your receiver with you as you travel in recreational vehicles or boats - just place your dish facing a Southern sky and signals are easily received.
This process allows Dish Network to deliver digital high definition and standard satellite services all over the world and to offer subscribers over 256 channels of quality programming plus 50 channels of Sirius music in CD quality clarity. Dish Network offers the most complete and diverse packages available with premium movie channels, 500 commercial-free movies each month, excellent sports channels, interactive gaming with local and national weather and traffic updates, multi-cultural international programming, educational channels, VOOM high definition channels, and children's and adult channels. A Parental Lock feature is included for absolute control in family viewing. Dish Network offers free equipment and installation and specified services for a limited time. As a gift to first-time subscribers, Dish Network includes a Digital Video Recorder - free - to further enhance viewing enjoyment. The DVR allows you to digitally record and store up to 100 hours of programming in 100 percent digital high definition imaging and sound. This lets the viewer record, fast-forward, rewind, and pause - even stopping live broadcasting for annoying interruptions - and then resuming with no problems. You can create your own instant replays with your DVR as well as a library of your favorite movies, sports events, or music.
Click on Dish Network now for complete information on packages and pricing. Comparison-shopping will confirm that you can have the best and most for about the same amount you are now paying for average television programming. Ordering is easy - online or by telephone. A friendly Dish Network representative will answer any questions, take your order, and schedule installation for a time that fits with your busy schedule.
Now you are informed as to how your new Dish Network digital satellite television home entertainment system operates.
About the author:
Mitchell Medford is a popular reviewer of consumer electronics and has served as a product development consultant for several consumer electronics.
mitchell@newtechnologytv.com
Author: Mitchell Medford
Dish Network Deals - What's the Best TV Package For You?
You've already come to the conclusion that satellite tv is the best way to go, but what Dish Network deals are there, and what's right for you? This artic le will talk about what packages exist, and options, to help you choose the right package for you.
America's Top 60 ( Entry Level Package ) - $31.99/month
This basic package is the most economical of all the Dish Network deals. Comparable to basic cable package, but for around $10/month less, this package gi ves you a lot of great tv for the price. For the sports fans, you can even add a $5.99/month option to get 30+ sports channels added to this package. Thi s package includes ALL local channels along with 60 favorites, such as ALL local channels, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Home & Garden Channel, ESPN , ABC Family, CNBC, Court TV, and a host of others.
America's Top 120 ( Mid-Level Package ) - $42.99/month
This mid-level package is the best bang-for-your-buck out of all the Dish Network deals. It includes all of the America's Top 60, along with many more cha nnels, with quite a huge chunk of them sports channels. This package includes ALL local channels along with 120 favorites, such as F/X, Soapnet, Tech T V, Toon Disney, American Movie Classics, The Speed Channel, Turner Classic Movies, 30+ music channels, and 30+ sports channels. If you're a sports fan
this is the package for you.
America's Top 180 ( Top-Level Package ) - $52.99/month
Out of all the Dish Network deals, this is what I consider the music package. This package includes ALL local channels along with 180 favorites, such a s Discovery Kids, Encore, National Geographic Channel, Nicktoons, The Golf Channel, Action Westerns, The Movie Channel, and another 15+ music channels givi ng you a total of 45+ music channels. This is an incredible package for those who love music. All music types, all the time.
America's Everything Pak ( Everything under the sun) - $86.99/month
This is the ultimate out of the Dish Network deals, the movie-lovers package. You get all the channels above, along with 4 preimum packages: Showti me Unlimited, HBO The Works, Multimax from Cinemax, and Starz Encore Super Pak(totalling 2000+ movies a month). For the movie lover, this means there are 75 movies a day to choose from, or 3 per hour.
There are many, many options for you to get the best Dish Networks deals. In fact, you can make your own custom package to enhance these Dish Networks dea ls. Many people love the entry-level package, America's Top 60, because you get way more channels than basic cable, at more than $10/month savings. $120/year savings and more channels than cable to boot, sounds like a win-win situation. The only hard part is with so many packages, which one fits you best.
About the author:
Anthony Kristovich III
For more information, please see the Dish Network TV page ( http://www.earticlesonline.com/dish-network-recommendations.html ) on http://www.eArticlesOnline.com for information on Dish Network Deals. Free Dish Network information is but a click away.
Author: Anthony Kristovich III
American Idol" Meets the Internet: Online Search for Next Hip Hop Superstar Has Begun!
HIP HOP RECORD CONTRACT CONTEST. NATIONAL CONTEST ON-LINE FOR NEXT HIP HOP IDOL.
CLEARWATER, Fla./Sept 10- Would you like to be the next hip-hop superstar? Nows your chance.
Visiosonic has just released Hip Hop Record Producer - a powerful music production software program priced at under twenty dollars that lets you lay down over 1,000 slammin percussion, instrumental, and vocal tracks using just your home PC. To help boost your career into orbit, the company invites you to enter your finished cuts in the Hip Hop Starz Music Contest.
Hip Hop Starz Industry Pros will select the 10 best entries monthly and Hip Hop fans will narrow it down to 2 monthly semi-finalists. The hip-hop fans around the world will pick final winners in July, 2003.
Contest will finalize with two winners (not just one) and both winning artists will be awarded a record contract with Visiosonics nationally distributed Hip Hop Starz music label.
With todays technology, musicians have a better chance than ever before to reach their artistic and professional goals," said Joe Vangieri, CEO of Hip Hop Starz Records Hip Hop Record Producer is revolutionary because it virtually removes all barriers and costs from professional quality music production. It truly levels the playing field".
Artists can begin submitting their hip-hop creations after reading contest rules and downloading their entry forms available at www.hiphopstarz.com starting September 15th. Final song judging and awarding of the record contract will take place in July, 2003.
The Hip Hop Starz Contest is the Internet version of American Idol," says co-contest creator Vangieri. There is huge interest in hip hop music, and we expect to discover some amazing new songs and artists in the months ahead."
Hip-hop lovers will also want to check out their Website for Hip Hop DJ--a program that lets you spin, mix and beat match MP3 tracks on your PC like a pro DJ ($14.95) and Hip Hop Jamz party mix compilation CD containing 12 hot tracks in both CD Audio and MP3 formats ($10.95).
All three Hip Hop Starz products will be available shortly at selected retailers nationwide. To find retail locations nearest you or to download a trial version of Hip Hop Record Producer and DJ Jamz, visit www.hiphopstarz.com.
For Retailers interested in selling these products, call the Distribution Center at (800) 678-8288.
Author: Joseph Vangieri
Judge Frees Morgan Hayes from Recording Contract with Pop-Starz Records
Broward County Judge releases 16 year old Singer Morgan Hayes from a recording contract signed with Pop Starz Records for their non-performance. Morgan Hayes, now managed by N-Vision Entertainment is looking forward to a new start with a new label and recording contract.
(PRWEB) November 16, 2007 -- Yesterday, Broward County (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida) Judge Robert Carney issued an order freeing 16 year old singer Morgan Hayes from a recording contract signed with Miami Beach based Pop Starz Records, Inc. (IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT IN AND FOR BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA - CASE NO: 07-014786)
Morgan, a winner of Disney Radios National Sing Like A Star competition, had signed with Pop Starz, but after a recording session in Nashville, and the resignation of Pop Starzs President and head of A&R, Morgan announced that she had opted to disavow the contract, since Pop Starz had failed to fulfill their promises to record an LP and obtain the necessary endorsement of the contract by the Court. The Judge ruled that Florida law allows Morgan to disavow the contract because Pop Starz had failed to obtain Court approval of the contract under Floridas version of the so-called "Jackie Coogan" law; a statute that makes certain contracts of minors working in the entertainment and sports industries to be binding.
Morgans attorney, Richard C. Wolfe, of Wolfe & Goldstein, P.A. in Miami said "Morgan is an incredible and unique talent. Due to the mass resignation of Pop Starzs Management Team, we lost all confidence in Pop Starzs ability to bring Morgan to the forefront of the music industry. Therefore, she properly exercised her rights under the law to disavow as Judge Carney so found." Wolfe, a co-draftsman of that statute, said, "the Florida statute was designed to protect both minors and record companies. The Judge recognized that the welfare of the child is of paramount concern."
"Morgan will continue to write and record great new songs," said Morgans new Managers Tierekka "Reek" Walker and Nicole "Bentley" Ippolito of N-Vision Entertainment. "We look forward to setting up showcases with more record labels to secure a recording contract.". Morgan said "shes excited about her new management team and moving forward with her career."
For more information contact:
Richard Wolfe, Esq. (305) 381-7115
N-Vision Entertainment (267) 252-9718
Author: Nicole Ippolito
UPMC St. Margaret Doctor Ranks as One of Pittsburgh's Best Medical Professionals
Terence Starz, M.D., specializes in arthritis at UPMC St. Margaret in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and has recently been featured by Pittsburgh Magazine as one of the Top Doctors in the region in his expertise.
Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) June 21, 2008 -- Dr. Terence Starz is a doctor who specializes in arthritis at UPMC St. Margaret in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and he has recently been featured by Pittsburgh Magazine for being one of the Top Doctors in the Pittsburgh region in his expertise.
Pittsburgh Magazine asked Castle Connolly Medical Ltd. - an economic engine as well as a source of medical advances and research to contact thousands of health professionals in the region and ask them to name doctors to whom they would entrust a family member when faced with a specific medical problem, and 129 doctors in 46 different specialties were ranked as the best in the area.
At UPMC St. Margaret, Dr. Starz is just one of the medical professionals working to provide patients with quality care and the latest technical and medical advances. Named among the nations top 100 hospitals and Consumers Digests list of 50 Exceptional U.S. Hospitals, UPMC St. Margaret is a 250-bed acute care and teaching hospital situated on a 21-acre campus. It begins its second century of service with renewed dedication to more than 250,000 residents of northeastern Allegheny County and the Alle-Kiski Valley, providing residents convenient access to the areas finest physicians and health services.
To see where Dr. Starz ranked on the Top Doctors list, go to www.wqed.org/mag/features/0508/top_docs.php, and for more information about UPMC St. Margaret, go to www.upmc.com/home.
About UPMC St. Margaret:
At UPMC St. Margaret, more than 800 primary care and specialty physicians and 1,500 clinical and support staff members work together to provide patients with quality care and the latest technical and medical advances. To this end, UPMC St. Margaret is in the forefront of implementing eRecord, UPMCs electronic system of patient medical records. Because all of the patient rooms are private and equipped with a computer, St. Margarets physicians and health professionals can use eRecord to electronically update medical records at the patients bedside. UPMC St. Margaret is one of the first community hospitals in the region to utilize this advanced technology.
Author: Doug Perrison − Executive Dire
Independent Television changes the face of TV
The 3rd Annual Independent Television Festival In Los Angeles Announces Official Selections
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) July 11, 2008 -- The independent television movement is taking Hollywood by storm with celebrities jumping on board. James Cromwell stars and Executive Produces Hitfactor; John Leguizamo and Nick Cannon both lend their talents to the hip-hop theater documentary Something Out of Nothing and Jodie Sweetin stars in the dark comedy about suicide, Small Bits of Happiness. Even Jason Priestly, Emily Procter (CSI Miami), and French Stewart show off their independent wares as part of this years Indy television fare.
ITVFest Logo
ITVFest stands proud as a bastion of true independent production. New voices in television are recognizing ITVFest as a genuine place to get noticed, get discovered and jump start their television and internet video careers In addition to ITVFests Independent Pilot and Web series Competition, the festival also offers a variety of panels and discussions with iconic talents such as Marshall Herskovitz, Bob Odenkirk, Mike Scully (The Simpsons), Dan Sterling (Sarah Silverman Program) and Phil Lord & Chris Miller (How I Met Your Mother). Reps from New Wave Entertainment, Brillstein-Grey, ABC, Sci Fi and others will also be on hand.
The Third Annual ITVFest serves as a platform for prospective writers, producers, directors and actors to display their talents in front of some of the industrys top executives. Those executives and some of the most respected and influential figures in television make-up ITVFests Executive board.
Last years festival saw major success for several entrants. Networks such as NBC, Starz and HBO have expressed serious interest in ITVFest talent and internet video distributors such as Sony Digital and Ziddio.com have hired ITVFest talent for their original and innovative content.
"ITVFest stands proud as a bastion of true independent production. New voices in television are recognizing ITVFest as a genuine place to get noticed, get discovered and jump start their television and internet video careers," said Executive Director AJ Tesler.
About ITVFest
ITVFest is a non-profit organization with the mission of providing opportunities to people with television industry aspirations. ITVFest receives pilot submissions from around the world in comedy, drama, alternative (reality, game show, talk show, etc) documentary, web series and out-of-competition categories. By screening the official selections to a live audience, which includes ITVFests executive, advisory board and extensive network contacts, ITVFest provides a bridge to the inner workings of the television industry.
Tickets and passes for the pilots, in addition to panels on topics such as pitching, comedy writing, dramatic writing, casting, representation, short form distribution, and others are now available online at www.itvfest.org.
The festival will take place August 1-7 at Laemmles Sunset 5 at 8000 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA.
Author: Jenny Starnes
Satellite TV Service -- Is DIRECTV or DISH Network Better?
Since the demise of Pegasus and VOOM, there are just two satellite TV service providers battling it out for the top spot -- DIRECTV and DISH Network.
Both companies provide excellent service, all-digital broadcast quality, and great customer service. The main difference between the two companies is the programming they provide.
How Satellite TV Service Works
Satellite TV providers such as DIRECTV and DISH Network send a broadcast signal carrying television programming to a satellite orbiting above the earth. The Satellite then broadcasts the signal back down to earth.
This signal is picked up by a satellite TV dish then transmitted to a receiver where it is amplified and sent to a TV screen.
Benefits of Satellite TV Service
* Satellite TV is broadcast in all-digital format, providing the highest quality picture and sound available.
* Satellite TV gives you access to hundreds of different programs, pay-per-view movies, special events, and commercial-free music channels.
* Satellite TV utilizes DVR (digital video recording) receivers so you can record your favorite programs and bypass commercials while watching live TV.
* Satellite TV is much more reliable than cable or over-the-air TV. Broadcast outages average only 1% as opposed to 3%-5% for cable.
Satellite TV Services
DIRECTV
DIRECTV was launched in 1994 and was the first DBS (direct broadcast satellite) service in the world. It is currently the largest satellite TV provider with 14.5 million subscribers. It is ranked #2 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.
DIRECTV offers more than 225 channels of programming, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming.
DIRECTV has the most sports program packages, including NFL Sunday Ticket.
When you order DIRECTV programming, the system -- satellite TV dish and receivers -- is free for up to four rooms. Installation is also free.
Program packages start at $41.99 a month for 135 channels (which includes 31 music channels), plus HBO, Showtime, and Starz.
Note: To find out about DIRECTV's latest special offers and free bonuses, click on the link below this article.
DISH Network
DISH Network was launched in 1996 and is the second-largest satellite TV provider with more than 12 million subscribers. It is ranked #1 in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.
DISH Network offers more than 255 channels of programming, including movie channels, music channels, pay-per-view movies and events, sports packages, and international programming.
Dish Network has the biggest variety of movies and shows and the most HD (high definition) programming.
When you order DISH Network programming, the system -- satellite TV dish, receivers, and installation -- is free for up to four rooms.
Program packages start at $31.99 a month for 60 channels plus HBO, Showtime, and Cinemax.
Note: To find out about DISH Network's latest special offers and free bonuses, click on the link below this article.
Bottom Line
If you're a sports fan and want the most sports packages -- including the popular NFL Sunday Ticket which allows you to watch almost all the NFL football games -- then DIRECTV is the way to go.
If you're a movie buff and want the biggest variety of movies and shows, and the most HD (high definition) programming, then Dish Network is what you're looking for.
About the author:
Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on Direct TV satellite TV.
Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more details on free satellite TV systems and service, ordering information, and the latest special offers and free bonuses from DIRECTV.
Author: Brian Stevens
Getting into Dish Network Deals: 10 Things To Know About Your Free Dish Network offer
Who is Dish Network?
Dish Network is United States second largest satellite TV Company. They started their satellite broadcasting in year 1987 and had gained more than 11 millions subscribers at the time of writing.
What’s for free in standard free Dish Network deals?
A standard free Dish Network deal gives you free satellite systems up to four rooms, DVR systems, remotes for the systems, and a free TV dish. During Dish Network promotion period, consumers can easily get extra bonuses such as free DVD player, free movie channels fees for 3 months, free $1,000 shopping spree, free digital camera, etc. Different dealers offer different deals, thus a little bit of study is encouraged when shopping for Dish Network services.
Dish Network vs cable TV, who is better?
Dish Network is still considered new in the market compare to cable TV. Thus, they are still less popular than cable TV in United States. However, Dish Network services are much better than cable TV services and the subscription fees are much lower.
Both Dish Network and cable TV can handle more than 250 channels. However, unlike cables, Dish Network provides 100% digital picture quality and they are more advanced in HD technologies. .
Also, in most of the case, Dish Network deals are much cheaper than Cable TV. There are too many additional charges in cable TV bills: franchise fees, taxes, extra costs for pay per view services, and equipment costs. While for Dish Network Programming Package starts at only $31.99 per month and basic equipments are given to the customers for free.
In terms of reception quality, cable TV has analog channels and even though you can upgrade to digital services, analog channels will still be analog, meaning an often-fuzzy picture. Dish Network satellite TV signals are fully digitize, which gives you all the advantages of digital systems. Very heavy rain or snow can obstruct reception briefly, but generally this happens very rarely.
How does Dish Network scores when compare to DirecTV?
Both DirecTV and Dish Network are practically similar -- both offer free satellite TV systems up to 4 rooms, more than 250 program selections, integrated digital video recording (DVR) capabilities, high definition TV (HDTV) capabilities, astonishing picture and sound quality and award-winning 24-hour customer services.
Where they differ is in the programming choices. Dish Network offers more International and movie channels while DirecTV seems more attractive to sports fans as they provide a much better coverage on sports programming. If you love football, DirecTV will be your first pick because their NFL Sunday Tickets will be covering every football game thru out the whole season. If you are a movie fans and would like to enjoy more on International channels, Dish Network is the service to go for.
What programming choices I have with Dish Network services?
Dish Network programming packages come in four main packages: America’s Top 60, America’s Top 120, America’s Top 180, and America’s Everything Pak.
America’s Top 60 package is the Dish Network entry package. The basic America’s Top 60 cost $31.99/month (some dealers offer $19.99 for the first three months); while with extra channels added, America’s Top 60 Plus charges extra $5 at the time of writing.
America’s Top 120 is Dish Network mid-level programming package that will cost you $42.99 per month. It includes all of the America's Top 60, along with additional of sports, movies, documentary, and kids channels.
If you are a big music TV fans, America’s Top 180 is the Dish Network programming package to go for. With $52.99/month, you get an extra of 15++ music channels in this package.
America’s Everything Pak is for those TV maniacs that can’t live without TV entertainments. This package is the ultimate of the Dish Network that provides every TV channels available under the sun, premium movie channels are included here in this package: Showtime Unlimited, HBO The Works, Multimax from Cinemax, and Starz Encore Super Pak. You will get more than 2000 movies per month with America’s Everything Pak.
How can I order Dish Network services?
Order online! Ordering your Dish Network deals online is instant and easy. All you need to do is just a few clicks on your PC and stay at home at the scheduled installation time. The retailers that have been around a few years have this process streamlined for efficiency.
Is it safe to order Dish Network online?
Yes, indeed there are a lot of scammers in the satellite TV online business, claiming to offer the best satellite dish deals and promotions. Their websites might look professional to lure unsuspecting customers. Most of these scams offer a fake promise on their deals. Extremely low monthly subscription rates, next-day installation, and unlimited number of free satellite systems are some of the common promotion terms. But once a customer signs up they find hidden activation fees, high shipping costs for free extras, installation dates continuously missed or pushed back, as well as outrageous cancellation fees.
However, there are still a lot of good Dish Network bargains online and it is still safe to order Dish Network online. In fact we believe the best Dish Network deals are always found online! The start up cost for online satellite TV dealers is much lower than the brick and mortal dealers. Thus, online satellite TV dealers offer the best bargains in satellite TV services. In order to win the market share, some online dealers even offer incentive gifts to their customers. Home theater systems, DVD players, digital cameras are given free to win more customers.
To assure your Dish Network order is safe, always look for authority dealers when you are searching for satellite TV deals. Dish Network had several reputable online retailers assigned and you are always recommended to order your satellite systems from them.
Click here to view the list of recommended Dish Network dealers: http://www.satellitetvissue.com/freesatellites/dealers.html
How can I search for reputable Dish Network dealers online?
Look for the ‘symptom of quality’ when ordering from Dish Network online dealers. A very basic Requirements on good online satellite TV dealer will be as below:
- In satellite TV business for more than 1 year.
- Websites must provide secure order page and certified website.
- Must be authorized by Dish Network or DirecTV officials.
- No "hidden" fees- cost charged on credit card is shown clearly.
- Customer service available via phone, live chats or email.
- 100% guaranteed. (Full refund if installation fails).Testimonial, users review, as well as other authority sites recommendation would be a plus point.
What’s next after I place my order?
You place an order with an online satellite TV system retailer. You will then choose the number of satellite system you wished to receive. Standard online satellite TV deals will offer you up to 4 free satellite systems along with certain incentive gifts like DVD player or home theater systems.
At the time of ordering you will schedule a time that a local professional installer can come to your home and install the system. You do not need to choose your programming packages at the time of order. For example when you are ordering the Dish Network deals, you can always order your Dish Network systems first and decide your programming package later. Instructions for ordering your Dish Network programming will be sent with your systems. You will need to call Dish Network's toll-free number (24/7 all year long) after your installation is completed. A customer service representative will help you activate all the programming you would like.
The satellite system will either be shipped to your home before the installation date or the installer will bring it with them. In normal case, shipping cost and standard installation fees are free of charge.
Do I need to install my Dish Network satellite systems?
No, you do not need to install the Dish Network systems by your own. Standard installation is free of charge and they will be professional technician assigned to fix the system for you.
About the author:
Teddy LCC., expert writter on consumer products reviews. Check out his latest satellite TV related website: http://www.satellitetvissue.com and get recommendations on free satellite TV offers.
Author: Teddy LCC.
DISH Network Satellite TV -- What You Need to Know Before You Order
Launched in 1996 by EchoStar Communications, DISH Network is the second-largest satellite TV provider in the world, with 11 million subscribers and 9 broadcast satellites.
In addition to TV programming, DISH Network satellite TV also offers 50 Sirius Satellite Radio music channels and Starband broadband Internet service.
J.D. Power and Associates recently ranked DISH Network #1 in customer satisfaction among all U.S. satellite TV and cable companies.
DISH Network Satellite TV System
To receive DISH Network programming you need a DISH Network satellite TV system to capture the broadcast signal and transmit it to your TV.
Due to the competition between DISH Network dealers, you can now get a complete DISH Network satellite TV system free when you subscribe to their programming service.
Here's what you get when you subscribe to DISH Network's satellite TV service:
* A free DISH Network satellite TV dish and stand.
* Up to four free receivers plus universal remotes.
* Free DISH Network HDTV (high definition TV) receivers.
* Free installation in up to four rooms of your home.
* Free gifts such as a free DVD player and home theater system (click on the links below for current offers).
DISH Network Satellite TV Service
Here's what you get with DISH Network service:
* All-digital programming for the clearest picture and sound available.
* More than 256 program program channels.
* Up to 500 commercial-free movies per month.
* DVR (digital video recording) so you can record your favorite programs.
* Up to 60 pay-per-view programs per day.
* Your local channels broadcast in digital format.
* Fifty commercial-free Sirius Radio music channels with CD-quality sound.
* Toll-free, 24-hour, 7-days-a-week customer service.
DISH Network Satellite TV Programming
Here are the DISH Network programming packages currently available:
* America's Top 60 ? 60 program channels for $31.99 per month.
* America's Top 120 —120 program channels plus 32 channels of Sirius satellite radio for $42.99 per month.
* America's Top 180—180 program channels plus 50 channels of Sirius satellite radio for $52.99 per month.
* America's "Everything" Pak—230 program channels, Showtime, Starz!, HBO, Cinemax, 50 channels of Sirius satellite radio, and DISH Network HDTV programming for $86.99 per month..
Note: Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more information on DISH Network programming packages, current offers, and free gifts.
Ordering DISH Network Satellite TV Service
You can place your order online, or you can call toll-free and order through a DISH Network representative.
The representative will take your order, schedule your installation, and answer any questions you may have. Installation time is usually one to five days after you place your order.
A certified Direct TV installer will install your system, test it to make sure it works, then show you how to use all the functions and controls.
Bottom Line
With DISH Network satellite TV service starting at a dollar a day, plus the fact that you can get a complete satellite TV system for free, DISH Network satellite TV is a bargain.
About the author:
Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on satellite tv systems.
Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more details on free satellite TV systems and service, ordering information, plus the latest special offers and free bonuses from DISH Network and DIRECTV satellite TV.
Author: Brian Stevens
The Premium Movie Channel Paradigm Could Soon Face Extinction
The article sent shockwaves throughout Wall Street, as the stock prices for both TiVo and Netflix shot up. Last September, a Newsweek article reported that TiVo and Netflix might be getting together to produce a true form of video-on-demand (VOD). Last week, a Netflix official fueled this speculation by dropping hints about a potential joint venture. TiVo, the original and premier provider of digital video recorders (DVRs) in the U.S., would eventually provide instantaneous online access to the entire DVD library (currently more than 35,000 films) of Netflix, the nation’s number one mail order video rental service. This would be accomplished via a broadband internet connection to specially equipped TiVo DVRs. This development could also spell the beginning of the end for premium movie services like HBO, Showtime, and Starz.
First, let’s put all of this into perspective with a little history of the premium services. Home Box Office (HBO) was the first premium service, debuting in 1975. It was one of the first channels beamed from a satellite and carried by cable operators across the country. As its popularity grew in the late 1970’s, several other premium services like Showtime, Cinemax, The Movie Channel, as well as some lesser known premium services came into existence. The industry started consolidating in the early 1980’s as HBO bought Cinemax, Showtime bought The Movie Channel, and those lesser know services went belly-up. In the early 1990’s, the Starz-Encore networks debuted to compete with the HBO and Showtime networks.
During the mid-1990’s, as satellite services such as Directv and Dish Network debuted, the premium services began offering “multiplexed” channels, i.e., multiple channels of HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, The Movie Channel, and Starz-Encore for the price of one. Unfortunately, the number of movie choices didn’t increase. Those services just began to air their same libraries of movies at different times on their various multiplexed channels. There are hundreds of movies at local video stores that have never played (and will never play) on the premium channels while there are a comparatively small number of others that have played on these channels thousands of times. That has always been the major weakness of the premium services. Multiplexing did not fix this problem.
Several market tests of VOD were conducted during the 1980’s and the early 1990’s but, because the technology was rather primitive, it did not catch on with consumers. By the late 1990’s, it finally seemed ready and lots of promises were made about the brave new world of VOD. The cable companies were talking about veritable online video stores, which were going to put Blockbuster, et al, out of business. Unfortunately, the reality of VOD has never lived up to its hype. The stuff the cable companies are currently passing off as VOD is nothing more than a glorified version of pay-per-view or a DVR. For the most part, their VOD offerings aren’t any different from the stuff currently playing on the premium channels and/or on pay-per-view. This is what I call “faux VOD.” How lame!
Fortunately, led by the apparent impending TiVo-Netflix undertaking, the landscape is about to change and a new era of genuine VOD is about to be ushered in. PC-based broadband VOD services like Cinemanow (www.cinemanow.com) and Movielink (www.movielink.com) have been up and running for several years and are about to broaden their offerings. In addition, SBC Communications and EchoStar Communications have already announced that they are teaming up to provide an online-to-TV VOD service this year, while several similar phone company-satellite operator projects are still in the negotiations stage.
Also, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) platforms, offering hundreds of television channels via a broadband internet connection to a TV set-top box, will be coming online this year. One of the major features of these services will be advanced VOD technology. Microsoft has developed its own version of IPTV technology. See Microsoft’s website (www.microsolft.com/tv) for details. The nation’s two largest phone companies, Verizon and SBC, plan to utilize Microsoft’s technology in the rollout of their respective IPTV platforms later this year.
Not to be outdone, several smaller companies also plan to compete in the broadband-to-TV market. Akimbo Systems (www.akimbo.com) debuted its service last fall and is currently in the process of expanding. Similar ventures such as DAVETV (www.dave.tv), TimeShift TV, (www.timeshiftv.com), and VCinema (www.vcinema.com) plan to enter the market later this year. All of these companies plan to offer almost unlimited amounts of movies, TV shows, sports, specialty programming, and international programs via a set-top box interface between a broadband connection and a TV set. This programming will be culled from the vast internet universe and made available for TV viewing. For a more detailed description of these services, see my related article entitled, “The Coming Television Revolution.”
If nothing else, all of these developments should compel cable companies to offer a much more competitive form of VOD. Comcast, one of the leading cable providers and a partner with Sony in its recent purchase of the MGM movie library, is now in the process of rolling out its advanced VOD platform. The other cable companies are sure to be following suit real soon.
Meanwhile, the premium services have still been slogging along. The premium channel paradigm has long outlived its original usefulness and has only been able to hang around because of the lack of a good VOD system thus far. The only thing really going for the premiums right now is their award-winning original programming; including series’ like “The Sopranos”, “Dead Like Me”, and “Six Feet Under.” Perhaps the premium services could morph into original-programming-only services in order to survive. However, they’d have to seriously increase the number of series’ (and the number of episodes of each) they produce. Perhaps they could also carry longer and/or alternative versions of programs already aired on broadcast television and basic cable. In addition, they would have to find a way to lower their subscription rates. I’m not sure all of that would be feasible. One thing I do know for sure is that people would not continue to subscribe to the premium channels for their movie content once they could conveniently pull up virtually any movie or TV show they wanted, any time they wanted.
About the author:
Terry Mitchell is a software engineer, freelance writer, and trivia buff from Hopewell, VA. He also serves as a political columnist for American Daily and operates his own website - http://www.commenterry.com - on which he posts commentaries on various subjects such as politics, technology, religion, health and well-being, personal finance, and sports. His commentaries offer a unique point of view that is not often found in mainstream media.
terrymitchell@verizon.net
Author: Terry Mitchell
Satellite TV Programming Guide
With more than 256 channels to choose from, satellite TV programming offers far more TV listings and viewing options than cable or over-the-air TV.
Satellite TV also gives you access to music channels, pay-per-view movies, sports packages, adult channels, and international programming.
DISH Network Satellite TV Programming
DISH Network programming packages start at $31.99 per month.
They also offer pay-per-view movies and events, adult programming, and sports packages. International programming includes: African, Arabic, Armenian, Asian, Chinese, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Israeli, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, South Asian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Urdu channels.
DISH Network has the biggest variety of movies and shows and the most HD (high definition) programming of the two satellite TV providers.
Here are DISH Network's current satellite TV programming packages:
America's Top 60 ($31.99 per month)
This package includes the following program channels, plus your local channels:
ABC Family, America's Collectibles Network, Angel One, Arts & Entertainment (A&E), Auction TV, Beauty & Fashion Channel, Bingo TV, BYUTV, Cable News Network (CNN), Cartoon Network, Catalog TV, Classic Arts Showcase, CNBC, Colours TV, Comedy Central, Country Music Television, Court TV, C-SPAN, C-SPAN2, Daystar, Discovery Channel, The Disney Channel (East), Disney Channel (West), E! Entertainment Television, Educating Everyone, ESPN, ESPN Alternate, ESPN2, ESPN2 Alternate, ESPNews, Eternal Word Television Network Family Net, Florida Education Channel, Food Network, Free Speech TV, Good Samaritan Network, Headline News Network, Health TV, Healthy Living Channel, The History Channel, HITN, Home & Garden Television, The Home Shopping Network, Horseracing TV, ISHOP, The Jewelry Channel, The Learning Channel, Lifetime, Men's Channel, Music Television (MTV), Music Television 2 (MTV2), NASA, Nickelodeon/Nick At Nite (East), Nickelodeon/Nick At Nite (West), Northern Arizona University/University House, PBS You, QVC Shopping Network, Research Channel, RFDTV, The Sci-Fi Channel, Shop At Home, Shop NBC, Spike TV, Stuff TV, The Travel Channel, Trinity Broadcasting Network, Turner Broadcast System (TBS), Turner Network Television (TNT), TV Games Network, TV Guide Channel, TV Land, TV Outlet Mall University Of California, University Of Washington, USA Network, VH1 The Weather Channel, Worldlink TV.
America's Top 120 ($42.99 per month)
This package includes all of the channels in the America's Top 60 package, plus the following program channels and 32 Sirius music channels:
American Movie Classics, Animal Planet, BBC America, Black Entertainment Television (BET), Bravo, CNN Financial/CNN International, Comcast Sports Network, Discovery Health, Empire Sports, ESPN Classic, F/X, FOX News Channel, FOX Sports, FOX Sports West 2, Fuse, Galavison, Game Show Network, Independent Film Channel, Lifetime Movie Network, Madison Square Garden, MSNBC, New England Sports Network (NESN), Noggin, Pax TV, SiTV, The Speed Channel,, Sports Alternate 1, Sports Alternate 2, Sports Alternate 3, Sports Alternate 4, Sports Alternate 5, Sunshine Network, G4 Tech TV, Telefutura East, Telefutura West, Toon Disney, Turner Classic Movies, Turner South, Univision East, Univision West, WE: Women's Entertainment, WGN Superstation.
America's Top 180 ($52.99 per month)
This package includes all the channels in the America's Top 120 package, plus the following program channels and 50 Sirius music channels:
Biography, Bloomberg Television, Boomerang, CNBC World, Discovery, Home & Leisure, Discovery Kids, Discovery Times Channel, Discovery Wings, Dish Music- 50's & 60's Hits, Dish Music- 70's Hits, Dish Music- 80's Hits, Dish Music- All That Jazz, Dish Music- Beach Party, Dish Music- Classic Soul, Dish Music- Country Music One, Dish Music- 4 Decades of Music, Dish Music- Expressions, Dish Music- Hitline, Dish Music- Hot FM, Dish Music- Italia, Dish Music- Love Songs, Dish Music- Moonscapes, Dish Music- New Orleans Jazz, Dish Music- Piano & Guitar, Dish Music- Road House, Dish Music- Tropical Breezes, Dish Music- Urban Adult, Do It Yourself Network, Encore (West), Encore, Action/Adventure, Encore Love Stories, Encore Mysteries, Encore True Stories, Encore Wam/America's Kidz Network, Encore Westerns, FOX Movie Channel, FOX Sports, Net World, The Golf Channel, GOL TV, Great American Country, Hallmark Channel, History Channel International, The Movie Channel (West), National Geographic Channel, Nickelodeon Games & Sports, Nick toons, The Outdoor Channel, Outdoor Life Network, Reality TV, SoapNet, Style, The Science Channel, TMC Xtra West, VH1 Classic, Wisdom Television.
America's Everything Pak ($86.99)
This package includes all the channels in the America's Top 180 package, plus the following (31 movie channels in all):
Showtime Unlimited Package, Starz! Super Pak, HBO Package, Cinemax Package.
Note: For more programming information, ordering information, and the latest bonuses and free offers from DISH Network, click on the links below.
DIRECTV Satellite TV Programming
DIRECTV satellite TV programming starts at $41.99 per month.
They also offer pay-per-view movies and events, adult programming, and sports packages. International programming includes Chinese, Filipino, Italian, South Asian, Spanish, and Vietnamese channels.
DIRECTV has the most sports program packages of the two satellite TV providers, including the popular NFL Sunday Ticket.
Here are DIRECTV's current satellite TV programming packages:
Total Choice ($41.99 per month)
This package includes the following program channels, plus your local channels and 31 music channels):
A&E Network, ABC Family, America's Store, American Movie Classics (AMC), Animal Planet, BBC America, Black Entertainment Television(BET), Bloomberg Television, Bravo, C-SPAN, C-SPAN2, Cartoon Network, The Church Channel, CNBC, CNBC World, CNN, CNNfn/CNN International, Comedy Central, Country Music Television (CMT), Court TV, Daystar, Discovery Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Disney Channel (East), Disney Channel (West), E! Entertainment Television, ESPN, ESPN CLASSIC, ESPN2, ESPNEWS, EWTN, Fine Living, Food Network, Fox Movie Channel, Fox News Channel, Fuse, FX, Galavisión, Game Show Network, Hallmark Channel, Headline News, The Health Network, The History Channel, Home & Garden Television, Home Shopping Network, Independent Film Channel, Inspirational Life, The Learning Channel (TLC), Lifetime, Lifetime Movie Network, Link TV, MARIA+VISIÓN, MSNBC, MTV, MTV2, National Geographic Channel, Newsworld International, NFL Network, Nickelodeon/Nick at Nite (East), Nickelodeon/Nick at Nite (West), Noggin/The N, Outdoor Life Network (OLN), Oxygen, PAX, PBS You, QVC, RFD TV, SCI FI Channel, Shop At Home, ShopNBC, Speed Channel, Spike TV, Superstation WGN, TBS Superstation, TechTV, TNT, Toon Disney, TRAVEL CHANNEL, Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN), TRIO, Turner Classic Movies (TCM), Turner South, TV Land, Univision (East), USA Network, VH1, WE: Women's Entertainment, The Weather Channel, Word Network, World Harvest Television.
Total Choice Plus ($45.99 per month)
This package includes all the Total Choice programs, plus the following channels:
The Biography Channel, Boomerang, Discovery Home & Leisure, Discovery Kids, Discovery Times Channel, Discovery Wings, DIY - Do It Yourself Network, Fuel, History International, PBS KIDS, The Science Channel, SOAPNet.
Total Choice Premier ($93.99 per month)
This package includes all the channels in the Total Choice Plus package, plus the following program channels:
Action, BLACK STARZ!, Cinemax (East), Cinemax (West), Comcast SportsNet (Mid-Atlantic), CSTV: College Sports Television, Empire Sports Network, Encore® (West), Encore® (East), FLIX, Fox Sports World, The Golf Channel, HBO, HBO (West), HBO Family, HBO Family (West), HBO HDTV, HBO Latino, HBO Signature, HBO2, HBO2 (West), Love Stories, Madison Square Garden (MSG), MoreMAX, The Movie Channel, The Movie Channel West, Mystery, NBA TV, New England Sports Network, The Outdoor Channel, SHOWTIME East, SHOWTIME Extreme, SHOWTIME HDTV, SHOWTIME Showcase, SHOWTIME TOO, SHOWTIME West, STARZ! (East), STARZ! (West), STARZ! Theater (East), Sundance Channel, Sunshine Network, True Stories, VH1 Classic, WAM!, Westerns, YES Network.
Note: For more programming information, ordering information, and the latest bonuses and free offers from DIRECTV, click on the links below.
About the author:
Brian Stevens is a professional freelance writer and webmaster who has written extensively on satellite TV programming.
Visit http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com for more details on free satellite TV systems and service, ordering information, plus the latest special offers and free bonuses from DISH Network and DIRECTV satellite TV. Copyright 2006 http://www.TheSatelliteTVGuide.com
Author: Brian Stevens
Dish Network vs DirecTV (comparative study)
Dish Network and DirecTV is direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service that broadcasts digital satellite television and audio to households. With the outbreak of satellite television people had many choices to make, which was then resolved by two main competitors, The Dish Network and DirecTV. As the prices were too high for cable TV, subscriber chose satellite TV, but had a question of which provider should be chosen?
A provider is a company that owns and operates satellites in geostationary orbit around the earth. These satellites broadcast the signal down to your satellite dish and from there the signal is transferred to your receiver (black box). The vast majority of satellite TV subscribers in the United States use one out of Dish Network and DirecTV. So this article will concentrate on comparing the two satellite giants in an attempt to help you decide which of the two is best for you.
When a comparative study is done one makes sure of the primary interests of a subscriber like customer services, installation charges, system warranty, channels that are available, etc.
Dish network was launched in December 1995 and soon reached its first million customers by the end of 1997. It is the first in the market that offers a two-way, high-speed internet access via satellite and first satellite TV system to offer over 500 channels all of which are digitalized.
Direc TV was launched in the summer of 1994 pioneering the satellite TV industry. Within a year it reached over a million customers in America. It has over 225 channels with many DVR and HD packages.
Both DISH Network and DirecTV offer 100% digital picture and CD quality sound in all of their programming which gives a crystal clear perfect picture which was not provided by cable TV
The exponential growth of the satellite TV industry builds a high level competition for both DISH Network and DirecTV and hence both are in a position where they can afford to offer the satellite equipment (dish and receivers) free to their subscribers. So for starters, both DISH Network and DirecTV offer free satellite equipment and subscribers just need a card for monthly billing purposes. As the equipments are free of cost, the price of your monthly programming bill depends on which programming package you choose.
DISH Network's America Top 60 programming package starts at $19.99 per month with the availability of local channels with a provision wherein you don’t have to commit a one year contract and wind your subscription without paying the penalty.
DirecTV's Total Choice package with local channels is $44.99 per month. In Total Choice package you get over 130 channels with a criterion of signing a one year subscription agreement. If you cancel your service before the year is up, then you have to pay a penalty fee to DirecTV.
As both satellite giants use the very latest technology in their satellites and receiving equipment, what differentiates the two is in the programming options that they provide to their subscribers. DirecTV is somewhat ahead of the DISH Network in their sports packages, as they offer seasonal sports options like the NFL Sunday Ticket that DirecTV has exclusive rights to. Both providers offer tons of premium movie packages to choose from including HBO, Showtime, Starz and Cinemax.
Dish Network has more satellites in orbit than DirecTV. They have the capacity to offer up to 500 viewing channels, whereas with DirecTV, you can only get 250 channels. DISH Network also offers more foreign programming packages than DirecTV does.
Dish Network uses dishes such as the 36"×20" SuperDish and the Dish 1000 with capability to receive satellite signals from three satellite locations simultaneously. Both Dish 1000 and SuperDish are becoming more common as Dish Network (as well as other DBS services) are attempting to squeeze more programming onto their growing systems, particularly local and national American television network stations, and foreign programming. Whereas DirecTV uses a fixed 18-inch diameter dish antenna to receive its signals to pull up the programs.
In the all important area of customer care, both DirecTV and DISH Network offer outstanding customer care and support. Both offer online FAQ sections and help sections at their websites. You can also call both toll-free to get help with any problem you may be having. Pay-Per-View movies may be ordered either by using your remote control or calling the 800 toll-free numbers for either provider.
Both DirecTV and DISH Network offer free professional installation as part of their free satellite TV promotions. One difference is that DirecTV will install your equipment for free in up to five rooms, where DISH Network presently only installs for free in up to four rooms of your home.
Markets are swarming with the various deals that are offered by the satellite TV providers. But one has to make a choice depending upon prices, subscription deals and quality of customer service.
About the author: Mike Lazier is a senior editor and an expert panelist with http://AFreeDish.com - one of the leading Authorized Dish Network Web Retailers.
Author: Mike Lazier
Dish Network Promotions 101
Recent years Dish Network had sprung up to become one of the hottest TV broadcast companies in United States. If you are interested in getting these Dish Network systems, here are the 101 things that you should know.
How popular is Dish Network service?
Dish Network services are so well-liked that the number of subscribers reached up to 12 millions in early year 2006.
What caused the success of Dish Network?
According to independent consumer surveys, the accomplishment of Dish Network satellite TV is mainly due to its superior picture quality, wide selection of channels and programs, reliable customer service and the bargains in price.
Dish Network provides the most HD channels, offers the most Latino/ International programming, and owns the largest retailers network that offer free satellite systems up to four rooms.
What, I heard free satellite TV systems!
Yes, you do get free Dish Network satellite TV systems when you order your Dish Network services. However, the free satellite TV systems do come with condition. In order to qualify for the free Dish Network deals, you must be a first time customer and you MUST commit to at least one-year service contract with Dish Network.
What is in the free Dish Network systems?
Basic free satellite TV systems includes up to 4 receivers (common model: Dish 311) with remote controls, Dish Network access card, and a satellite dish to be installed facing the north. Some dealers will give out extra incentive gifts such as DVR system, DVD player; home theaters sets and free movie channels for certain periods. Thus, picking up the right Dish Network dealer is important.
What are the programming packages available for Dish Network?
Dish Network programming packages come in four main packages: America's Top 60, America's Top 120, America's Top 180, and America's Everything Pak.
America's Top 60 package is the Dish Network entry package. The basic America's Top 60 cost $31.99/month (some dealers offer $19.99 for the first three months). The package is consist of 60 major paid TV channels in United States, such well-known channels include ABC Family, CNBC, Court TV, Comedy Central, ESPN, MTV, Nickelodeon, Star Sports and a host of others. Additionally, local channels are always included for free whenever it's possible.
This mid-level programming package will cost you $42.99 per month. It includes all of the America's Top 60, along with additional of sports, movies, documentary, and kids channels. Some of the channels listed here that America's Top 60 does not have includes all time kid favorites-- Toon Disney, F/X, Soap Net, Tech TV, American Movie Classics, The Speed Channel, Turner Classic Movies, as well as a big bunch of sports channels.
With $52.99/month, you get an extra of 15++ music channels in America's Top 180. Further more, America's Top 180 also include some of the famous TV channels that America's Top 120 and America's Top 60 do not have. These channels include Discovery Kids, Encore, National Geographic Channel, Nicktoons, The Golf Channel, Action Westerns, as well as The Movie Channel.
Lastly, the America's Everything Pak. This programming package is the ultimate of the Dish Network that provides every TV channels available under the sun, premium movie channels are included here in this package: Showtime Unlimited, HBO The Works, Multimax from Cinemax, and Starz Encore Super Pak. You will get more than 2000 movies per month with America's Everything Pak.
How can I order Dish Network systems?
To get Dish Network services, you need to approach Dish Network dealers to select the number of satellite systems, programming packages, HD upgrading, DVR upgrading, and other supplementary deals. Shipping and installation will be done very soon after the order is placed. A cost of $50 will be charged as deposit when you place your order. This fee will then credited back to your Dish Network monthly bills thus starting up Dish Network services basically is free.
In order to get the best Dish Network deals, Dish Network online dealers are recommended as they are those who can afford the bargains for the consumers. Click here for Dish Network online dealer’s review: http://www.sunsatellites.com/dishnetwork/dealers.html
About the author:
Teddy LC is an expert writter on consumer products reviews. Check out his latest satellite TV related website and get useful consumer guides on Dish Network promotions: http://www.sunsatellites.com/dishnetwork/promotions.html
Author: Teddy LC
Call 1-866-320-2126 to speak with a customer representative about getting your DIRECTV!