Verizon lights up 4G LTE in Muncie, IN, Mayor impressed with technology economy

By Rick Yencer

MUNCIE, IN - That big launch of Verizon Wireless 4G Long Term Evolution wireless network played on Willy Wonka and his golden ticket giveaway except  the prize was Android cell phones instead of a trip to the chocolate factory.

 That giveaway besides the news that Muncie joins the largest worldwide wireless network attracted Mayor Dennis Tyler, Bob Ratchford, president of Yorktown Town Council, and even some representatives of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce.

 But the best spokesman was young Chris Draper, who loves his Verizon phone and network, but works on iPhone problems for Apple at the IBM call center in Daleville.

 Draper, wearing a Google tee shirt, did not want to miss Thursday's promotion and lauded the 4G network and  Verizon hardware as he was working out problems with his phone. He likes the innovation, speed and worldwide access with Verizon that made him the best spokesman next to Ted Wendling, district sales manager who was on hand.

 And the young Draper is the son of Vernon Draper, who is the assistant director of network communications at Ball State University, and Yorktown resident, like Ratchford who use Verizon for communication, information and technology.

 Tyler acknowledged that Verizon, like other wireless producers and their support groups, were a big part of the Muncie economy besides BSU that has plenty of technology and media based programs that are know around the world.

  Besides the IBM call center that provides support for Apple, Phillips and other providers, ACS down the road in Anderson also helps Verizon and other government customers with their communication and information technology, needs.

 Tyler admitted his young grandchildren are more at mastering iPads and other technology although the mayor uses wireless with iPad, lap tops and cell phones.

 Wendling said Verizon was the leader in worldwide service, with their iPhones connected everywhere without doing anything That cannot be said for other wireless including giant AT&T.

 Just the facts show Verizon's 4G LTE enabled devices stream video, music, photos and other information 10 times faster than 3G networks, and even the mayor said that technology gives the community the edge when competing with a worldwide economy.

 Verizon Wireless invested more than $1.3 billion in its Indiana between since 2000, including $159 million in 2011. And it was the first in Indiana to offer high-speed connectivity in the fall of 2010 that puts it ahead of other networks.

 Just look for Verizon stores on McGalliard Road next to Marsh at McGalliard Road and Wheeling Avenue along with other outlets in Yorktown and Anderson.