In the first live, long-distance wireless video call in North America, Coun. Bill Karsten chatted politely yesterday with Moncton Mayor Lorne Mitton.
“This is quite exciting because I recall way, way back, actually using a couple of tin cans and a string,” said Karsten, holding a cellphone while sitting in Mayor Peter Kelly’s office at City Hall.
Kelly couldn’t make it to the event because of another engagement, but Karsten aptly took over the reigns while city officials, media and representatives from Rogers Communications looked on.
Rogers announced the availability of its new 3G (third generation) high-speed wireless network and Rogers Vision services in Halifax and Moncton.
Michael Boudreau, Rogers Communications Inc. vice- president for Atlantic Canada, said the company is the first wireless carrier on the continent to offer wireless video calling.
Karsten finished off his chat with Moncton’s mayor by bringing up a much-coveted summer event.
“I want to congratulate you and Moncton on the recently announced Eagles concert,” he said. “As Mayor Kelly has said many, many times, what is good for Moncton is good for Halifax as well.”
“Certainly Mayor Kelly and I convene quite frequently, and what’s good for Halifax is good for Moncton and vice-versa,” said Mitton.
