I noticed in the news that Verizon is merging with Alltel. This sounds good to me and will hopefully result in new services and even better coverage, possibly including more broadband Internet options to rural Montana. I have mentioned before I grew up on a ranch in northern Montana to which I am still closely tied. Having worked with TechRanch it is very clear to me how the Internet and cell phone coverage can increase a small business's potential. The dial-up connection at my parent's house is incredibly annoying but they are unable to generate high-speed Internet due to their specific location. Cell phone coverage is equally important to me as is the Internet. Although I have become too attached to my Verizon cell phone (I tried for just 1 week to leave my phone at home while at work but failed) it is much more affordable because of features offered at a rate I would pay for a land line. Yes, the portability is convenient for my supervisor's to conduct business while traveling, especially those with Blackberry's. I even admit to getting business done from the road be it for TechRanch or the family ranch. Many start-up entrepreneurs I see coming into TechRanch opt for using cell phones rather than purchasing a land line. I imagine the portability and price is a big draw to them. Technologies such as Internet and cell phones have really given a boost to those wanting to start or continue businesses in rural Montana. Greg Gianforte, CEO of RightNow Technologies and Founder of Bootstrap Montana continually states that high-speed Internet can allow anyone anywhere to conduct business. View an article from our latest Bootstrap Montana Seminar. With this merger, I hope to see and welcome increased broadband Internet possibilities and other increased choices in plans and services for small businesses, farmers, and ranchers in rural Montana and America.