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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, October 15, 2004
CONTACT: Sue Schaefer, Information Officer, (605) 773-3201

South Dakota Public Utilities Commission and Cellular One® celebrate enhanced cell phone coverage in two South Dakota communities

The South Dakota PUC and Cellular One® will be in Canton and Arlington, South Dakota on October 18, 2004, to celebrate the enhancement of cellular coverage. The Arlington meeting will be held at 1:00 p.m. followed by the Canton meeting at 7:00 p.m.

"Residents of these two communities have good reason to celebrate," says PUC Chairman Bob Sahr. "It was just within this past year that residents came to the Commission asking for help in securing better service. We are very pleased to see that through hard work and attentive local providers, these communities have been rewarded with new towers."

"As a result of the PUC's leadership in eliminating some of the barriers of providing wireless services in rural South Dakota, Cellular One has been able to continue the expansion of its wireless network to serve rural consumers, with Canton and Arlington as the latest beneficiaries," said Gene DeJordy, vice president of regulatory affairs at Cellular One.

Commission Vice Chairman Gary Hanson pointed out that, "Cell phones have become a necessity of life for health, safety and economic development as well as an important aid to families' quality of life." Hanson stated that, "the PUC is continually working towards more successful development of wireless infrastructure across the state."

"It is a pleasure to participate in launching improved cellular service to two more South Dakota communities," offered Commissioner Jim Burg. "Modern cell service will assure safety for the community and provide the economic opportunities we are all seeking."

The Arlington celebration will be held in the Municipal Building located at 202 West Elm Street. Canton will celebrate their enhanced service in the City Council Room located at 210 N. Dakota Street. Refreshments will be offered at each event. The public is encouraged to join in these "Cell" ebrations.

For additional information, please feel free to contact the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission at 1-800-332-1782, or Cellular One at 605-360-8844.