While millions of people download podcasts from the internet everyday, for others it is a new phenomenon. This is a brief explanation you might find helpful.

In its simplest terms, a podcast is a message or program recorded to an electronic file that you can use from your computer. It's like a DVD or a CD, only you access it from a computer terminal with the click of a button, instead of running a disc from a special player attached to your television or stereo equipment.

But unlike a TV show you record, you don't have to set a timer to get the Dingell podcast. You also don't have to buy a tape or a special program because most podcasting programs are free of charge. Once you download and install a podcast program, you tell it which podcasts you are interested in downloading by entering the address of the podcast. With your computer, audio speakers and the program installed - you are set to go! You can visit www.house.gov/dingell/Dingellcast.shtml for a complete list of Dingell podcasts.

COMMON QUESTIONS

Do you need an iPod?

No. Any digital audio player or computer with audio-playing software can play podcasts.

How do you listen?

There are many software programs you can use. You can listen to the podcast for free with audio programs such as iTunes or an RSS reader.

What is an RSS reader and what does the XML button mean?

RSS (Really Simple Syndication) is a format for syndicating news or any kind of feed (audio, video, etc.). An RSS reader checks and reads the XML feed and in this case downloads the latest audio. The XML button directs you to the XML file your RSS reader will need in order to read the Podcast.

Can I watch the Dingell podcast?

Not yet. Right now, there is just an audio version of the podcast. You never know when that might change, so keep checking in.

The Dingell podcast can also be downloaded onto portable devices you own, including iPodsT, PDAs or .mp3 players.

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• Global Warming
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Congressman Dingell on Energy Security and Climate Change The earth is getting warmer and human activities are a large part of the cause. We need to act in order to prevent a serious problem. The world´s best scientists agree we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60-80 percent by 2050 in order to limit the effects of global warming. This is a massive undertaking, and it will not be easy to achieve, but we simply must accomplish this goal; our future and our children´s futures depend on it.

Economic Stimulus Package Information What is the recovery rebate? The recovery rebate is the payment now of a new tax credit for the 2008 income tax year. The check is intended to stimulate the economy. Am I eligible for a stimulus check? Click here for more information

11/19/2009 - Subcommittee on Health hearing on Cancer Research 11/19/2009 - Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection and Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet joint hearing on Consumer Information 11/18/2009 - Subcommittee on Health and Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations joint hearing on H1N1 Preparedness 11/17/2009 - Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet hearing on Universal Service Reform Act of 2009 11/17/2009 - Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection hearing on "Prioritizing Chemicals for Safety Determination"