One heck of a ride Gary.
I gave up on Verizon because it stinks where I am. Since then, AT&T has poured lots of resources into the network, and I have 5 bars and 3 G in many places. I like the billing plans better, the carry forward minutes, and I'm really starting to love the Navionics app on my iPhone. They are definitely trying harder.
Many people have switched over this way to AT&T. It was interesting too, since we all lived in an area where Verizon simply didn't have any good coverage. Great ads though
I hated being hostage to Verizon's crippled phones and billing system.
Seriously, in this country, you are truly a victim of coverage. When Verizon gets into the GSM system, life should become more interesting. They are rolling out their GSM lte system in many areas, but mostly metro areas.