Last week, I received a note on my door warning me that my expanded basic cable service will be removed if I don't call Liz. That made me chuckle and remember that almost two years ago, a disgruntled cable installer provided me with the expanded basic cable when I ordered the basic service.
The installer (we'll call him Rick) inquired why I was only ordering the basic service, so I explained that Kris was getting digital cable and I was getting DSL. To save money, I would watch TV at Kris's, and she could use my computer in return. Rick continued with his story (keep in mind, this is nearing 9:00 P.M. and 90° outside) about his previous hookup to a group of nine sorority sisters. Someone had tapped their box to get free cable, and in doing so, really screwed up the wiring. The girls were so bitchy to the first installer, he did half the job and left. Rick came in next, with even bitchier (more bitchy?) girls than before, to clean up and set things straight. He was so appreciative at our kindness, he gave me the expanded basic and even HBO for the first two months.
Now, two years later, they finally discovered my secret. Because I am moving in two weeks, I decided that I really wouldn't mind not watching ESPN in the morning. It would be a learning experience. But the next morning, I check out ESPN. Snow. NBC? Snow. Weather Channel? Snow. Not only did they take away my expanded basic, but also the basic channels, too. I now have snow on every channel. To top it off, I received a bill for next month's service yesterday. Now they want me to pay for the snow, but still at the basic price. But I can't be mad because Rick hooked me up and saved me a ton of money. I will just have to cancel my already non-existent service.