LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: BIRTH DATE ENDS PLAN TO SWITCH PHONE SERVICE

To the editor:

On Sept. 6 I received a call from a long-distance provider telling of all the advantages I'd receive is I switched my long-distance calls from my current provider. They promised I could call anywhere anytime for 7 cents a minute. There would be no carrying charges, and I would receive a check for $100. They pointed out the carrying charge I am currently paying. Knowing that the carrying charge far exceeded the calls I make, I accepted the offer.

I was told I must answer three questions, which would be recorded: 1. Name and address. 2. That I was switching to the new provider. 3. My birth date. They then congratulated me for accepting their wonderful offer.

A few minutes later, the new provider called again with an apology. Since my birth date was 1915, they would not accept me as a new customer. Talk about discrimination.

LUCILLE COURSEY

Olive Branch, Ill.