On: How 20 mbps Internet can be slower than 8 mbps

The Verizon fios phone service also dies if the electricity goes out.

Only if the power is out for > 8 hours or so. If you're without electricity that long, phone service might not be the biggest thing to consider (food that may go bad, for example is more important)

Tell me all about it, while I remember the most recent north east ice storm.