Today's internet provides an amazing array of stores for shoppers to choose from, whether they are looking for a car, a loaf of bread, or a telescope! Prices can differ quite a bit, and it is tempting to buy from the store that offers the best price, period. If only it were that simple!

When one chooses to buy products on the web, the total price should not be the only consideration. It is also important to look at the company's reputation and track record where delivery, availability, and customer service are concerned. Can you talk to a salesperson should you have any questions? Will the company support the product (and you!) after the sale should you have any problems or questions? Are sales people able to give you advice on accessories now and in the future to help you expand your telescope or camera equipment properly? Believe me, most "virtual" stores on the web do not fit that picture!

Oceanside Photo & Telescope has been around since 1947 and we are proud of the reputation we've built with the photographic and astronomical community at large. We have two sales staffs...one dedicated to astronomy, and the other dedicated to photography. All of the people at OPT have a background in astronomy or photography in some way, shape, or form. Some teach, some have worked for major telescope manufacturers, and all of them use the equipment themselves and have knowledgeable advice to impart for those who desire it. We even have a camera and telescope repair facility on site to service your equipment if and when it needs it.

Even with all of these obvious benefits, OPT still understands the importance of low prices for most of our customers. We always work to keep our prices competitive, even without the use of special sales and discounts, but from time to time you may find a lower price elsewhere. If that should happen, we ask that you give us a chance to meet or beat that price! In almost all circumstances you will be glad you checked with us first. After all, we want our customers to have it all....good prices, good service, and the knowledge that they are dealing with a company that won't turn on them the minute their credit card charge has gone through.

It is simple to see if we can meet or beat a price:

• Call OPT at 1-800-483-6287 Monday - Saturday from 10:00am - 7:00pm, or on Sunday from Noon til 5:00pm Pacific Time and ask. Please remember to have the name of the website and the price handy. If you like what you hear, we can take your order over the phone right there.

• Send an email to internetsales@optcorp.com. Make sure you let us know which item(s) you are checking on, where you saw a lower price, and what that price is. We will respond to you as quickly as possible.

• Come into our brand new store at 918 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA with the information in hand.

Thanks for listening, and we hope that you'll allow us to be your one-stop source for all your astronomy and photography needs!