April Fool's Day: Juneau, Alaska Renamed UNO
Posted on April 1, 2016
Juneau, Alaska has been renamed UNO in a deal with Mattel. The deal effect today, April 1st, is described as a landmark naming-rights deal. It features a logo change on the website and social media channels of Alaska's capital city.
Kimberly Kiefer, UNO City Manager, says in the announcement, "As the capital of Alaska, we enjoy promoting our state's rugged and unspoiled wild side. Alaska has more abundant wildlife and adventure than anywhere in the lower 48. This partnership with UNO is just one way we are promoting the wild wonders our city and state have to offer."April fools! UNO, Alaska will change its name back to Juneau effective 12am PT April 2, 2016 pic.twitter.com/9GhfDdFGLm
— UNO (@realUNOgame) April 1, 2016
The April 1st deal promotes the news that Mattel's UNO is "going wild" in 2016 with new blank Wild cards added to the decks. The wild cards allow players to get write in their own house rules.
The city's official website, juneau.org, really does say "Welcome to UNO!" today. The city is also offering residents a complimentary Wild 4 UNO deck of cards at City Hall today.
CBS News reports that Mattel made a $15,000 donation to the Juneau Community Foundation in honor of late Mayor Greg Fisk as part of the temporary renaming of the city.