'716' changes to '585' on November 15

s of November 15, the area code for the Greater Rochester region changes from 716 to 585. (Buffalo and its surrounding four counties will continue to use 716.) From November 15, 2001, until August 16, 2002, both 716 and 585 will work for long-distance calls to Rochester numbers.

After August 16, 2002, a caller using 716 for a Rochester number will receive a recorded message instructing the caller to use the new area code. This recorded message will continue until spring of 2003.

The area code change affects almost all phone lines at the University, except for some numbers of University affiliate offices located beyond the immediate metropolitan area.

Those at the University should remember:

• To use the new area code when ordering stationery and business cards for use after November 15, 2001. (Existing stationery with the 716 area code can still be used after that date.)
• To update office Web pages to reflect the new area code.
• To update e-mail "signature" information.
• To inform those who may try to reach University offices--especially through pre-set "speed-dials" on fax machines or phones, or by calling a pager--that the area code has changed.
• To modify cellular phones. Cingular and Sprint cell phones (for University and personal use) can be brought in for modification at certain times during the weeks of November 26 and December 3 to locations at the River Campus, Medical Center, and Highland Hospital. (Details to be announced on the Web page cited below.)

For more information, visit the University's Web site on this topic at www.rochester.edu/its/areacode.

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