The Graduation Gift That Keeps On Giving For Upstate New York Grads

ROCHESTER, NY — Graduation season is here, and with it, comes the search for the perfect graduation gift. What do you get the grad that already has every gadget, game and gizmo known to humanity? With the latest in wireless technology and customizable plans, Verizon Wireless provides the gift that keeps on giving — the gift of a dependable, practical and cost-effective way to keep in touch with loved ones.

"For the parents of college-bound students, wireless service offers a sense of security that they'll be able to reach out to their grad no matter where they are," said John Palmer, president of Verizon Wireless' Upstate New York Region. "Grads will find comfort in their ability to keep in touch with their family and friends without having to worry about racking up a huge long distance bill." 

America's Choice^SM calling plans from Verizon Wireless offer affordable, cost-efficient, nationwide calling on the country's largest and most reliable network — with long distance and roaming charges included.

"With America's Choice, every call is a local call anywhere on our nationwide network," said Palmer.

Parents only need to remember one number to reach out to their child, no matter where they are. Grads can be secure in the knowledge they have the ability to make emergency phone calls from almost anywhere.

To allow graduates to make the most of the nation's largest, most reliable wireless network, Verizon Wireless offers a wide variety of phones and products featuring the latest in wireless voice and data communications technology. A broad selection of new handsets, portable computers and accessories is available to ensure love at first sight for your style-savvy grad.

Verizon Wireless offers several additional products to help grads personalize their phones and keep them up-to-date with the latest trends. With Get It Now^SM, your grad can download full-featured applications directly to his/her wireless phone. Applications available include everything from games and ring tones to maps and photos. TXT Messaging enables your grad to send and receive text messages up to 160 characters, and sign up to receive instant TXT Alerts to stay informed about news, weather, sports and entertainment. For those times when calling or sending voicemail isn't appropriate, Verizon Wireless' TXT Messaging makes it possible to message anyone with a wireless phone, any time of the day, for just $0.02 for each message received and $0.10 for each message sent. Bundled monthly TXT Messaging plans are also available. Grads can also access the Internet wirelessly using Express Network^SM from Verizon Wireless. Delivering average speeds of 40-60 kbps, with bursts up to 144 kbps, Express Network will help your student meet the demands of college by providing fast, reliable Internet access for research, data management and communication, all without the limitations of a phone line tethering them to the dorm room.         

Verizon Wireless knows the costs of college are tough on families. A pre-pay program called [FREEUP]® is an option for parents who want to help their children learn to manage their own bills. America's Choice Family Share Plans^SM keep the whole family connected while they share in the value of wireless service with one account and one monthly bill. The New Every Two^SM program by Verizon Wireless allows your grad to keep up with rapidly changing technology. After your grad has completed two years with a digital plan $35 or higher, they qualify for a free phone (up to $100 value), or receive $100 towards the purchase of a more phone, with a two-year service agreement renewal.

For more great gift ideas for your grad, visit the Verizon Wireless online store at http://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 33.3 million customers. Headquartered in Bedminster, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com.

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