1.   Viacom and other cable providers raise rates periodically throughout the year.

2.   Also, the industry is facing increased competition from cable providers that are starting to offer more channels through digital programming.

3.   Although the upstart network is only available to satellite customers in Atlanta, MBC is in negotiations to be picked up by local cable providers.

4.   Another plus for local subscribers will be the sheer size of the new company, which will be the third largest cable provider in the country.

5.   As an interim strategy, the company has even spent heavily to acquire wireless cable providers.

6.   As a cable provider, U S West will almost immediately begin poaching telephone customers from other telephone companies in their home areas.

7.   AtHome provides the cable modem service through agreements with various cable providers around the country.

8.   Because cable companies are generally under no such obligations, the Bell companies will continue to face costs and regulatory hurdles that cable providers do not.

9.   Bishop said the studios plan to meet with major cable providers to discuss the new service.

10.   A lot of the problems we face are the result of the past practices of other cable providers.