Cable & the Economy: "Cyber Monday is emblematic of the dramatic growth in online commerce and the value created by the Internet in our everyday lives"

Broadband played a key role in the success of Cyber Monday, which has become a key shopping day on the retail holiday calendar. 

• Cyber Monday sales reached a record $1.25 billion, up over 20 percent from last year, to become the heaviest online spending day in history according to retail analysts.  
• Only the second time a billion dollars in online commerce has occurred in one day.
• For the holiday season-to-date, $15 billion has been spent online, 15 percent increase versus the same days last year.

The growth of broadband in American homes is the principal reason Cyber Monday has taken on such an important role in our economy and the lives of Americans. From 2000 to 2010, the percentage of homes with broadband access to the Internet has grown from 4.4 percent to over 68 percent.

68 percent of U.S. households used the Internet in 2010, up from 64% in 2009 – and cable continues to be the connection of choice. Even better, more people will soon be online via cable thanks to a program announced by cable operators (including TCA member companies) and nonprofits aimed to boost broadband adoption among lower income homes with kids.

Shop safe this holiday season - check out these cyber safety tips.

Texas Cable Companies Honor Veterans

Veterans across Texas were honored through the Take a Veteran to School project, which is part of a national initiative by the History Channel and Cable Providers.

Take a Veteran to School provides a way for students to learn more about the history of Veterans Day and about the experiences of veterans from all backgrounds and walks of life.

Suddenlink Communications Take a Vet schools include:

• Jane Long Middle School in Bryan
• Raye McCoy Elementary in Georgetown
• Austin Middle School in Amarillo

Time Warner Cable Take a Vet schools include:

• Clear Creek Elementary on Fort Hood in Killeen
• Rapoport Academy in Waco
• Cole Middle School on Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio