Dial an operator, win a car

In an effort to get American consumers to pick up the phone for directory information, BellSouth is launching a sweepstakes that rewards callers with prizes, including a Pontiac Solstice automobile.

The promotion is, at least partially, a reaction to use of Internet search capabilities to replace 411 service, a spokesman said.

"Internet searches are a part of the motivation for wanting to promote this to remind people that dialing 411 is still the fastest and most up-to-date way of getting directory information," he said. "Things on line are not always updated. Also, people don't always have access to computers, and they have to go to a site and search the right way. Dialing 411 is still the fastest and easiest way to get information."

Consumers have to call a special number or go online to register their phone number in the sweepstakes. After that, they receive automatic entries every time they call directory assistance at 411.

Other prizes include five 12-month subscriptions to BellSouth FastAccess DSL Ultra service with download speeds of up to 1.5 Megabit per second. No purchase is necessary to register and enter the sweepstakes.