Rick Pinney’s Post

OpenCape proudly stands alongside a coalition of diverse organizations—from municipalities and non-profits to healthcare providers and businesses—all united by a common concern: the lack of viable internet options on Cape Cod. Despite Comcast's claims of comprehensive coverage, which are based on self-reported data, our coalition knows the reality is starkly different. With $147 million in BEAD funds ready to be distributed via the Commonwealth, we are determined to showcase the true extent of the internet service gap. To achieve this, we urge residents to participate by simply taking 3 speed tests at fixcapeinternet.com This data will provide irrefutable evidence of underserved areas, essential for advocating for improved broadband access across the region. To empower our existing and prospective coalition members in spreading this crucial message, we've developed a comprehensive toolkit, available on the site. It includes postcards, emails, social media ads, scripts, and informative one-sheets—all designed to facilitate easy communication with constituents in multiple languages about the urgent need for better internet infrastructure. By leveraging these resources and encouraging community involvement, we aim to ensure that every resident and business on Cape Cod has access to reliable, high-speed internet. Our collective efforts will challenge the status quo and pave the way for a more connected future for all who call this region home. Take Action Today! www.fixcapeinternet.com. Please share and repost! #opencape #InternetForAll #MAdigitalequity #fiberbroadband #stopthemonopoly #capecod

In the wake of Affordable Connectivity Program funding lapsing, states are scrambling to identify ways to keep their residents connected to the internet. In fact, all 50 states—plus D.C. and Puerto Rico—named “affordability” as residents’ primary barrier to broadband access in their 2024 digital equity plans. Some states—like California, Wisconsin, South Carolina, and Minnesota—are considering creating their own subsidy programs to help households cover the cost of monthly service subscriptions and devices. Others—like Maine and North Dakota—are planning to set up connectivity hubs where residents can come for free Wi-Fi, device and digital literacy support, and telehealth service. But affordability isn’t states’ only concern. “Price is just one component of affordability,” writes our Kelly Wert in the first of a three-part series examining how states are using federal funds to address critical broadband expansion issues. “People in unconnected households may struggle to access affordable broadband offers and need assistance signing up for low-cost service, accessing devices, and learning digital skills.” #DigitalInclusion #DIW2024 https://pew.org/3ZSktfD

Are you part of a Montana community that's eager to see transformative change through technology? The Community Connect Program is here to bring that vision to life! Their mission is to extend financial grants to eligible entities dedicated to bringing community-focused broadband services to rural areas. This initiative isn't just about internet access; it's about opening doors to economic growth, enhancing educational opportunities, improving healthcare services, and upgrading public safety - all tailored to the needs of your community. Imagine the infinite possibilities: Entrepreneurs expanding businesses online, students accessing a world of knowledge at their fingertips, medical professionals leveraging telehealth to save lives, and so much more. In places where broadband has been out of reach, the Community Connect Program is ready to bridge the gap, ensuring that our communities is not left behind in our digital age. Don't miss this chance to revolutionize your community from the ground up. If your area is longing for internet access and all the benefits it can bring, we're looking to partner with you. Your initiative could be the key to unlocking a brighter, more connected future for everyone in Montana. Learn how to apply for a grant and become a cornerstone in this transformative journey towards community-oriented connectivity. https://lnkd.in/gvbd38xN

🌐 Championing Affordable Connectivity for All: A Call to Action for Our Counties Thrilled to stand in solidarity with our county leaders as they advocate for the extension of the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in Washington, D.C.! At the heart of the matter is ensuring that low-income families, spanning urban, suburban, and rural communities, have continued access to affordable high-speed internet—a vital utility in today's interconnected world. Our organization has long been committed to supporting local governments in their mission to bridge the digital divide. We recognize the pivotal role technology plays in enhancing business operations, advancing educational opportunities, and propelling infrastructure growth in municipalities. The ACP, providing essential monthly subsidies for broadband, has been a beacon of hope for over 22 million homes nationwide, but its future hangs in the balance as the program faces an imminent expiration in April. Let's amplify the message of our county leaders who are urging Congress to pass the ACP Extension Act, allocating $7 billion to sustain this critical program. As advocates for organizations, including nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities, we understand the profound impact that affordable internet access can have on communities. In our ongoing commitment to technological advancements, our organization has played a crucial role in assisting local governments to find affordable internet solutions. By aligning with our county leaders, we reinforce the idea that funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program is not just a financial necessity but a moral imperative—a modern-day equivalent to historic initiatives like the electrification of the country in the 1930s and the establishment of the Interstate Highway system in the 1950s. Let's unite in the pursuit of universal internet access, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of work, education, government services, and healthcare. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that no community is left behind in the digital era. #ConnectivityForAll #DigitalInclusion #Advocacy 🚀🌐

🌐💡 Exciting Update for San Augustine, Texas! 💼📶 We're pioneering a transformative public-private partnership with The San Augustine Public Library, JohnHargroveConsultingLLC, and Evergreen Technology Solutions LLC centered around San Augustine Public Library. This collaborative effort is focused on deploying public WIFI spaces, ensuring our rural community stays connected in the digital age. Our mission: to bridge the digital divide and empower our residents through accessible, high-speed internet. Let's stay connected, San Augustine! #DigitalInclusion #PublicPrivatePartnership #RuralBroadband #CommunityEmpowerment Collaboration among JohnHargroveConsultingLLC, Evergreen Technology Solutions LLC, and the San Augustne Public Library to create a High-Speed Internet backbone. Objective: Establish a public-private partnership-based Digital Hub and Network system, offering complimentary Internet service to public and nonprofit institutions via Evergreen ISP. Focus: Sustain long-term system operation through public-private partnerships to address the rural Digital Divide. Support: Assist community nonprofits with minimal service costs, boosting Digital Literacy and equity. Expansion: Plan for public high-performance WIFI coverage along key highways and select indoor locations.

Check out the latest opinion piece from former FCC Commissioners Mignon Clyburn and Michael O'Rielly on the importance of the Affordable Connectivity Program, and the economic case of why Congress should extend it so that low-income families don't lose their broadband connectivity. #FundACP https://lnkd.in/eQZ77aEb

We say YES to all of these PEW study findings: https://lnkd.in/gQ97FuJz - Expand free WiFi at community anchor institutions to provide more places for the public to connect to the Internet. - Bring free broadband to public housing. - Bring free WiFi to parks and other commonly used outdoor locations. - Establish tech hubs where people can not only get free WiFi but can use public computers and get trained on how to use computers and broadband. - Lending programs to get Internet-connected devices to the public. - Establish telemedicine hubs. - Fund WiFi infrastructure for newly constructed low-income housing. We've implemented these across our markets in the southeast. Contact us if we can help your community: https://openbb.net

It is great to see a growing number of success stories like Macon County, that outline the benefits and impact of community broadband networks, and the partners that make it possible! "Where networks remain in private hands, such agreements help protect community interests, providing accountability to, for example, ensure rates stay affordable and the ISPs build in the neighborhoods they say they will. The new fiber network in Macon County is already proving to be a game-changing investment for the community. Last month, auto parts maker Samkee opened a new factory in Tuskegee, part of a $128 million investment that was contingent on high-speed internet being available. Improved connectivity has also enabled a new telehealth facility at Tuskegee University. Macon County is just one of hundreds of communities across the country showing how broadband can be built differently, finding creative solutions to expand internet access while delivering benefits for residents — whether that’s by reinvesting revenues to help more people get online, providing free service for families of school aged children, or, like Macon County, strategically leveraging networks for economic development. What’s more, these community-focused ISPs frequently provide better, cheaper, faster service than traditional providers." The team at ECC Technologies, Inc. are working diligently to bring quality connectivity to more communities through locally owned networks. There are still far to many communities that are in need of good internet options, that are not going to be solved through the upcoming BEAD funding efforts. If this is your community, reach out so we can talk about your options! Keep up the great work!! Connect Humanity, Jochai Ben-Avie, Brian Snider Rural LISC, Christa Wagner Vinson https://lnkd.in/etdZHEjJ

Support the Reauthorization of the Affordable Connectivity Program! The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a critical lifeline that has enabled high-speed internet access for thousands in underserved areas of western Massachusetts, is at risk of expiring. This program’s cessation would leave up to 55,000 residents without essential internet services. The challenges of enrolling our students in the program was always overcome by our belief in ACP's importance. It's been disheartening to inform students and their families that this program might not continue, pushing us to seek alternative solutions that fall short of ACP's reach and impact. Ensuring that every individual has access to affordable, reliable internet service is not just about connectivity; it's about upholding the right to equal opportunities in our increasingly digital world. We urge our network to join us in pressing lawmakers to reauthorize and adequately fund the Affordable Connectivity Program! #DigitalEquity #BroadbandForAll #ActNow #DigitalInclusion

During the recent National Association of Counties Annual Conference & Exposition, Cox Communications and Broadband Communities collaborated to address rural broadband expansion challenges with county officials. Key takeaways from the event include the vital role of broadband deployment in enhancing the economic vitality of counties. County officials expressed interest in partnering with organizations that prioritize affordability and digital literacy. Feedback from county officials resonated with a recent Cox survey, highlighting the positive impact of high-speed internet availability in previously unserved or underserved areas. Survey respondents noted that broadband access stimulates economic growth, reduces the education gap, and encourages younger generations to stay in their communities for enhanced learning and work opportunities. Moreover, 86% of consumers highlighted that access to broadband has significantly improved their lives. #BroadbandExpansion #DigitalEquity #RuralCommunities #EconomicDevelopment #HighSpeedInternet #DigitalLiteracy #RemoteLearning #CoxCommunications #BroadbandCommunities #NationalAssociationOfCounties #SurveyResults