Holding the line on telemarketers. (nation in brief).(Federal Communications Commission Web site)(Brief Article)

With all the junk mail coming in over the Internet, it's almost a relief now and then to get a call from a telemarketer. Well, not really. Most irritating are the cheerful folks peddling long-distance telephone plans. How can each be better than the other? But if they really were so bothersome, of course, we could sign on with one of those "do-not-call" lists. And if that's too much trouble, an extensive telemarketing site put up on the Internet by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has an easier suggestion: Pick 'em off one at a time. "When you receive telephone solicitation calls, clearly state that you want to be added to the caller's do-not-call list," the FCC advises. The site, chockfull of advice on rules and what to do if they are broken, is located at www.fcc.gov/cgb/ consumerfacts/tcpa.html.

But most of us wouldn't mind saving a few bucks on long-distance calls if only we could figure out which offer is the really good deal. FCC to the rescue again. Designed for military and defense personnel but applicable to all consumers, "Calling Home: What You Should Know" may be found at www.fcc.gov/cgb. A brochure by the same title may be obtained by calling 1-888-225-5322.