May 19, 2000

Free upgrade offered
on home satellite systems

Farm Bureau members may now upgrade their present home satellite system to a new, 20-inch DISH 500 digital system currently being offered through the American Farm Bureau Federation, Inc.

There is no charge for the complete, state-of-the-art Echostar 3822 system (MSRP-$199). This special offer is open to all members who have had PrimeStar, or a C-band (big dish) system, within the last six months. In addition, Cable subscribers may also qualify to receive the free DISH system by providing a recent cable bill.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this service to our members,” said Roger Jenkins, Texas Farm Bureau Services Development manager. “With PrimeStar now scheduled to become extinct, C-band (Big Dish) systems aging and becoming difficult to service in many areas of the country, and cable continuing to raise their rates, we thought it important to sponsor a clear choice in this somewhat confusing time for viewers of these particular satellite systems.”

In order to take advantage of this offer, members need only to provide an original PrimeStar, C-band or cable billing statement dated within the past six months. A special website, and a toll-free upgrade “hotline” has been set up exclusively for Farm Bureau members needing more information. A complete upgrade information package, including the form required to receive the free system, will be sent to all members who qualify.

Upon receipt of the completed form and billing statement by Farm Bureau, the new 20-inch DISH Network system is shipped via UPS to the member’s home. After arrival, installation is set at the member’s convenience. There is no charge to the member for equipment. Members only pay for whatever programming they choose to authorize, which is activated on the day of installation and may be changed at any time. The entire process is completed within five to seven days after receipt of the upgrade form and original billing statement by Farm Bureau.

For members who have never had a satellite system, there is a 10 percent discount on all Echostar equipment purchased through Farm Bureau. In addition, at the member’s option, if programming is selected which totals $39.98 per month (example, TOP 100 and any movie channel package), a $199 rebate is provided by DISH to cover the cost of the entire system. Or, members have the option of leasing a two-receiver DISH 4922 system for $49.99 per month, which includes a 150 channel programming package (value $39.99 per month). Installation is $99, which includes the first month’s programming.

DISH now offers local, network channels via satellite for many areas of the country, including Dallas and Houston. The new 3822 System/DISH 500, 20-inch antenna has two feedhorns, that receive two different satellites simultaneously (one for basic/movie channels, one for local channels). A second receiver, for independent viewing at a second location, is available for $89 (plus $4.99 per month), with the Farm Bureau discount.

This is a limited offer. For more information call the toll-free upgrade hotline at 1-888-890-4745. The service is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Central time. All information is also available on the web site: www.ruralfreedish.com.