River Falls has "cellular" service!!

I found this story from the River Falls Journal. It was printed in their edition from the 43rd week of 1999. What would that be, October?

This article about cell phone market expansion absolutely hilarious to read 7 years after it was written. You've got to love the description of what a cellular phone is and what features are available.

[Emphasis mine]

Norm Walker and Patrick Coughlin are serious about marketing communication devices in the River Falls area.
...
Walker is hoping to expand his knowledge in the cellular market.

"There are three main reasons why people buy cell phones," Walker said. "The most important is safety. The second is to make their lives easier. The third is business."

The cellular phone models are light-weight and come with rechargeable batteries. A free digital phone is available for customers who sign a 12-month service agreement at $20 a month, plus a $5 hook-up charge [isn't that "hook-up charge" $30 now?].

This introductory offer includes free voice mail, caller ID and call waiting. It also includes 40 minutes a month of phone calls anywhere in Wisconsin or the Twin Cities.

Walker and Coughlin offer service connection to Cellular One, U.S. Cellular and Aerial [Aerial?? Who's that?]. They sell Nokia, Motorola and Phillips [Do they still have Phillips phones?] products including digital analog phones and pagers. They can order additional brands upon request.

Those who don't sign up for the introductory offer can purchase a variety of cellular phones ranging in price from $20-200.

"Cellular phones"...I love it! I want to know how old the journalist was who wrote that and whether or not she actually owned a cellular phone