We've endured both in Oregon during the past few years.  The southwest
fourth of our state was split into its own area code (541) a couple of
years ago, but just recently, it was announced that our 503- area code,
except for the northwestern-most coastal communities, would be overlaid
with a new area code.  This forces us into 10-digit dialing for all calls
to the 503- and the new area code(s) within the overlay zone.  I don't
think much of this, but we'll learn to live with it.  Either option has
potential negative financial impacts on both businesses and individuals
(changes to forms, bus. cards, stationery,  advertisements, speed-dial
configs, etc.).

I have no opinion nor knowledge of the wireless phone area code issue.

Lee Gunter
============================================================
Supervisor, TRG HP/MPE Systems
The Regence Group
Phone:              503.375.4498
Fax:                     503.375.4401
E-mail:             [log in to unmask]
============================================================
All opinions expressed are just that -- opinions.  They're
mine and mine alone.




From: Jim Phillips <[log in to unmask]> on 07/22/99 10:34 AM

Please respond to Jim Phillips <[log in to unmask]>


To:   [log in to unmask]
cc:    (bcc: Lee Gunter/BCBSO/TBG)
Subject:  [HP3000-L] Off Topic: Telephone Area Codes




I know we have discussed this in the past, but I just received an
opinion survey from the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (who
oversees the telephone services in Ohio, among other things) asking
me my preference for the introduction of new telephone area codes.

They are offering two options:  Geographical Split, and Overlay.

My understanding of these two options is that Geographical Split
is where an area code defines an exclusive geographical area.
As telephone numbers are depleted and a new area code is assigned,
all the phone numbers in a particular geographical area are switched
to the new area code.  This allows local calling (within the same
area code) to be done with only seven digits.

Overlay on the other hand ignores geographical boundaries so you
could end up with two phone lines in the same house or business
that have different area codes.  This means that local calls
would have to use the full 10-digit telephone number (including
the area code).

Also, I deduce that Geographical Split has been the "traditional"
way of doing things, at least here in the USA.  Have I missed
anything?  What do you think of these two options?

In the letter the PUCO points out that FCC regulations prohibit
the assignation of an area code exclusively for wireless telephones.
In my humble estimation, this is a stupid regulation.  Why not
have an area code just for wireless?


Jim Phillips                            Manager of Information Systems
Voice: (330) 527-2124                   Therm-O-Link, Inc.
  Fax: (330) 527-2123                   PO Box 285; 10513 Freedom St.
Email: [log in to unmask]       Garrettsville, Ohio  44231