When it comes to cable television, we Long Islanders do not have a choice. Cablevision has an iron grip on cable reception that guarantees them a sure thing. Sure, Cablevision may dryly remind us that we do have a choice: We can choose reception from them, a satellite dish or a UHF antenna.Úquot; The bottom line is that if we choose cable, Cablevision is the only game in town. Without hesitation,they regularly raise our rates expecting us to pay or take a hike. And what profits! In addition to its broadband, cable, Internet and telephone interests, Cablevision Systems Corporation owns the majority of Rainbow Media Holdings, Inc. and its networks (American Movie Classics, WE Women's Entertainment, Bravo, IFC, MuchMusic USA, Rainbow Sports, News 12 Networks and MetroChannels and 50 percent of FOX Sports Net.); Madison Square Garden and its teams (The Rangers and The Knicks); Clearview Cinemas & The Wiz consumer electronics chain. In addition, Cablevision operates Radio City Music Hall.

Long Islanders do have a choice of local, regional, and long distance telephone service carriers. Long Islanders do have a choice of

Internet service providers. Long Islanders should also have a choice of cable service carriers. In addition, we should also be able to pick and choose only the cable networks we want and not be forced to accept those we don't. Competition in business is the only way consumers can expect better service and cheaper rates. Inevitably, the public will prevail, but unfortunately, only after enough people complain enough times to our elected representatives who are mandated to serve our better interests.

Martin Geller