Consumer United Newsletter :: March 12, 2009

Consumer United, 181 South St. Boston, MA · 617-482-4700 · www.consumerunited.com

In This Issue

When it comes to your landline, you may want to ... cut it out. In 2007, cellular phones accounted for 55% of all telephone expenses, where landlines only accounted for 43%. Learn more here.

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Community Links

Greetings!

Welcome to our bi-weekly newsletter. Tap into the power of the masses and get more for your money while making an informed decision in less time. As a Consumer United member, you qualify for a two-week FREE trial membership with Netflix. Click here for details.

Google Launches Tip-Driven Community

As consumers become increasingly interested in finding resources that will help them save money and time, Google has launched a Web community that also allows users to post and vote on money and time-saving tips. The site, known as TipJar, already has thousands of tips in easy to navigate categories such as finance, health, technology, kids, family and several others. Users can submit tips by logging in with their Gmail account information or by creating an account. Other users vote on whether they like or dislike a particular tip. Savings suggestions with the most votes appear at the top of each category's homepage. Click here for the lowdown.

Will ZillionTV Change The World?

What is ZillionTV ... and will it change the world? The soon-to-be launched ZillionTV is a cable and satellite alternative that will allow consumers to watch free Internet video directly on their TV screens. A small set-top-box device named "Z-bar" connects your television set to the internet and is bringing together the entire digital media ecosystem -- including consumers, content owners, advertisers and ISPs. You do not need to pay for a membership, or a subscription. For a $50 activation fee, you will receive a special remote, and the "Z-bar" device. However, commercials are included. A small fee enables you to watch commercial-free. For a little more money you can even own the show. Click here for more information.

Economic Downturn Fuels Travel Bargains

The weakening economy has caused many travelers to think twice about booking their next trip, and the tourism industry is feeling the pinch. Airlines and hotels are struggling to attract customers, but the good news is that the tough times can translate into big savings for those willing to travel in this market. Due to the strengthening dollar and decreased business travel, some previously pricey destinations have become a bargain. Europe, and Great Britain in particular, could be a great alternative to a typical summer beach vacation. In the past year, the dollar has gained about 25% against the Euro and more than 40% against the British pound. Read more here.

Inside Consumer United

Philia Yiu is a member of our Consumer United team, and works full time as a Consumer United Advocate. How does Yiu save money? "I save money by knowing how much money I have." And her financial motto? "Have no debt, save and invest!" Yiu enjoys the people she works with. "Without them, I don't know what I'd do!" She also believes in her advocacy, and believes in better deals together. "Nobody wants to spend more, when you can pay less." Yiu's entire family is currently enrolled in Consumer United services, along with many of her friends. In Yiu's free time, she hangs around with friends. Before Consumer United, Yiu graduated from Syracuse University in May 2008. Read more here.

Save On Consumer Reports Magazine

Consumer Reports Magazine has been published monthly since 1936 by the non-profit Consumer's Union, and features unbiased test results of cars, computers, appliances and other brand-name consumer products. Subscription includes the 360-page Annual Buying Guide. Click here to subscribe to Consumer Reports Magazine through our affiliate partner, MagazineCity. A subscription is $29 per year, a 46% savings off the newstand price.

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