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http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/031111/nytu052_1.html

Verizon Wireless Makes it Easier to Switch to the Nation's Best Wireless
Network Without Changing Numbers
Tuesday November 11, 10:06 am ET
Consumers and Businesses That Want to Switch Can Get Started Now on the Web


BEDMINSTER, N.J., Nov. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless announced that it
has launched two Web sites as part of its commitment to simplify the process
of changing wireless service providers while retaining the same phone
number-known as local number portability or LNP. On November 24th wireless
customers in the top 100 metropolitan areas will be granted the ability to
change wireless carriers, without the hassle of having to change phone
numbers; those interested in switching to Verizon Wireless can sign up today
to be contacted regarding whether their number is eligible. The Web sites,
one for individual consumers and one for businesses, can be found at
www.vzwshop.com/lnp/consumer or www.vzwshop.com/lnp/business. Those still
deciding whether to switch can review the FAQ section to learn more about
LNP and what it means for them.
"Verizon Wireless supports local number portability and has been diligently
working to implement system upgrades, new processes and procedures to ensure
a smooth and barrier-free transition for all customers," said Denny Strigl,
president and CEO for Verizon Wireless.

The Verizon Wireless network is renowned for its expansive, dependable
coverage as evidenced by the many awards it has received, including The Wall
Street Journal's "Top Choice," award and many reader's choice awards
throughout the country from the Florence Morning News in South Carolina to
Michigan's Saginaw News to the San Jose Mercury News.

Verizon Wireless has also received high marks for its other differentiating
services: Laptop Magazine and Network Computing give Verizon Wireless'
high-speed wireless data service, the NationalAccess network, its highest
ratings. And noted personal technology columnist for BusinessWeek, Steve
Wildstrom, declared Get It Now(SM) to be the best of any other
downloadable-application service available.

Consumers and businesses that do not want to change their long-held wireless
or landline phone number but do want to sign up with the wireless carrier
that offers the nation's most reliable network can do so starting November
24, 2003, the start date of a mandate by the Federal Communications
Commission that allows customers to retain their eligible phone number if
they choose to switch.

For more information about Verizon Wireless, visit any Verizon Wireless
Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or visit www.verizonwireless.com.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless is the nation's leading provider of wireless
communications. The company has the largest nationwide wireless voice and
data network and 36 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ,
Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ -
News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). Find more information on
the Web at www.verizonwireless.com.




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Source: Verizon Wireless