TCI is at it again — making changes and making their customers upset.

For the third time in a year, TCI has made changes to its cable TV service.

Just a week ago, they dropped three channels, including pay-per-view. Students wishing to view a boxing or wrestling match are now forced to meet up with friends who own satellite dishes.

In addition, the Cartoon Network is sharing air space with AMC, while MTV and USA have been moved to channels 98 and 99.

The new changes are due to digital compression technology. The new service will offer additional channels as an option to basic cable or expanded cable service.

Right now, the service isn’t available because it is being tested by TCI employees. Hopefully, changes in the system will be upgraded by the first of year.

What isn’t fair about the whole change is that subscribers to cable TV in Ames were not properly notified.

Sure, an article was printed in the Ames Tribune in early October, but no notification was sent out in billing statements.

Luckily the article was printed, or TCI would find themselves in some serious trouble. Breaking federal regulations wouldn’t have resulted in just a simple slap on the wrist.

Sheila Lundt, assistant to the city manager, said her office was notified one day prior to the changes.

She added that residents who are upset about the changes have called in their complaints.

Today the Cable Commission will be meeting in the City Council Chambers at 4 p.m. Those wishing to voice concern over the recent changes should find time to attend the meeting. And if attending the meeting is impossible, send a letter to the Cable Commission.