Any Cingular store will set up a 1 year contract. They always offer a 2 year first but if you just tell them you want a 1 year there's never any problem. I always sign 1 year contracts with them as I want equipment upgrades every year.

I've always been happy with my Cingular service so far and I've been with them for about 4 years. You mentioned that you will be doing most of your calling in LA.. do you mean Louisiana or Los Angeles? Cingular has great coverage in Los Angeles, but I have absolutely no clue about their service in Louisiana.