Back in 1947, area codes were introduced in North America and on this date in 1951, the very first long distance call without operator assistance was completed (the mayor of Englewood, New Jersey called the mayor of Alameda, California). Today we take area codes and direct dialing for granted...but in Connecticut, that's all about to change.

Starting this Saturday, November 14, two new area codes are being overlaid in both the 203 and 860 regions. That means even if you're making a local call, you have to include the area code. Nobody's phone number is changing, no new charges for local calls will go into effect, but we'll all have to re-program speed dials, fax machines, alarm systems, call forwarding settings, and everywhere else our numbers are embedded. Think of it as Y203K...no bunkers or canned goods necessary.

So if you're trying to reach us, don't forget to add the 203 area code no matter where you're calling from, and we'll all avoid telephone-related hang-ups!

Picture from Flickr user mag3737.