ITC Newsletter - Summer 2023

AUREON CONNECTIONS

A Message from Our CEO

Greetings,

I’m excited to share the summer issue of the ITC Newsletter. In this issue, our partner spotlight is Chris Summerall with Cascade Communications. Chris shares his insights on working in the telecommunications industry. Cascade Communications’ partnership has been invaluable and a testament to what we can achieve together.

Under the leadership of our dedicated Technical Operations Manager, Thomas Van Eschen, our technical operations department continues to excel, setting high standards for us all. Thomas shares his department’s work and impact on our business.

In the Security Corner, Jordan Neal’s expertise ensures we stay safe and protected by deflecting ransomware attacks. This knowledge is paramount in our line of work.

Aureon’s commitment to giving back creates a Ripple Effect in our communities. Our charity grants are making a difference to rural Iowans, and our recent donation to Orchard Place is a testament to our shared values.

Lastly, thank you for the overwhelming success of the 34th Annual Aureon Golf Classic. Your support and participation made it a memorable event. I look forward to next year’s 35th Annual Golf Classic and the Aureon team creating more successful moments.

Best regards,

Scott Behn - CEO

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Q & A with Chris Summerall, General Manager

What inspired you to pursue a career in telecommunications?

Honestly, I was drawn to a career in telecommunications due to my love of technology, the influence of my friends, and the attractive financial benefits it offered. However, as I gained experience and matured in the industry, I discovered the positive impact it was making on the lives of others.

Connect with

Chris Summerall General Manager

By providing connectivity to individuals and businesses, it enabled people to connect with their loved ones, pursue career opportunities, access healthcare services, and facilitated companies in monitoring infrastructure, reaching previously inaccessible customers, and improving their operational efficiency through technology. This realization reinforced my belief in making a positive difference and added a sense of fulfillment to my career in telecommunications.

What advice would you give to someone else considering a career in telecom?

Don’t say no, or it’s not my job. When it comes to the telecom industry, there are many layers and a lot to learn. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn or experience as many of these layers as possible.

What do you think is the most exciting development in telecommunications right now?

The ongoing deployment of fiber-optic networks is transforming broadband telecommunications by providing faster download and upload speeds, improved streaming quality, and enhanced overall internet performance. Governments are providing initiatives to incentivize, promote, and fund the deployment of fiber-optic networks, recognizing the importance of economic growth and digital inclusion. Telecom companies invest heavily in expanding fiber-optic infrastructure for faster internet access to more regions.

What excites you about your role at Cascade Communications?

I am excited about my position at Cascade Communications because it allows me to have a positive impact on the staff, customers, shareholders, and the community. One of the things that has been particularly exciting is the collaborative effort between the staff, board, and myself to create a clear vision and mission statement for Cascade Communications. This statement showcases who we are as a company and what drives us forward.

Another aspect that truly excites me is the opportunity for growth. We are currently working on overbuilding another community with fiber, which opens new possibilities for expansion. Being involved in such a project and providing reliable, high-speed connectivity to more areas is incredibly rewarding. Overall, what excites me the most is the ability to contribute to the success of Cascade Communications and make a positive difference in the lives of our stakeholders and the communities we serve.

Final thoughts to share with our readers?

Always look for ways to make a positive difference, and when you think you have done enough, do some more.

Since its establishment in 1954, Cascade Communications has remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering local, high-quality service and products that meet the expectations of our valued customers. Since 2009, we have been at the forefront of deploying fiber broadband, continuously expanding our reach, and ensuring that rural areas of Iowa benefit from local, consistent, and reliable communication services.

Cascade Communications’ mission is to lead the way in telecommunications by offering state-ofthe-art products and services to our customers, providing exceptional local customer service, and delivering value to our shareholders through continuous innovation and improvement. We strive to be the technology leader in our community, utilizing our fiber optic network to provide enhanced connectivity to our customers and neighboring communities to meet their ever-growing connectivity needs.

“I am incredibly proud of managing Telecoms in Alaska and completing fiber builds in challenging terrains, weather conditions, climates, and logistics. It was a demanding endeavor that required careful planning, adaptability, and perseverance.”

- Chris Summerall, General Manager

Technical Operations

Aureon’s Technical Operations provides managed services for clients. They support and install Managed Firewalls, switches, wi-fi and our Hosted UC products as well as Aureon’s Cloud WAN. As an important part of our business, learn more about Thomas Van Eschen and his team as he discusses his role as manager.

Thomas Van Eschen Technical Operations Manager

How long have you been with Aureon and what was your journey to your current role?

I have been with Aureon/LightEdge for over 15 years. I started in 2007 at LightEdge as a NOC technician and ran the Minneapolis data center. I continue to run the Minneapolis Data Center for Aureon as it is used as a backup facility for our 616 Data Center in Des Moines.

On a day-to-day basis, who are the key stakeholders that you interact with, and what solutions does your team deploy?

My team deploys managed FortiGate (firewall/ wireless access points, switches)/Hosted UC for our Clients. We work closely with our packet networking group on some turn-ups.

How do you approach long term planning and strategy?

I look to build a team of diverse talent that can support our Clients in numerous ways. We always look towards the future and what products we can advocate for our Clients.

What do you love most about Aureon?

Teamwork and collaboration.

What excites you about coming to work each day?

I enjoy learning about innovative technology and working with a talented group of people on my team.

Describe the impact of your department’s work. My department handles all the Managed Firewalls/ Routers/Switches/Wireless Access points for our clients. We strive to ensure the uptime for our clients.

What are some goals your department is focusing on?

We are focused on reducing our response time to service tickets and improve the Client Experience.

Is there anything additional you would like to share with the shareholders?

My team and I share a passion for ensuring we have the tools to keep our Clients happy and guarantee their uptime from a network standpoint and the speed at which we take care of Clients in need.

Bridging Art and Technology: Aureon and GRM Networks Support Community Connections at Walldogs Mural Festival

Aureon’s Ripple Effect program donated $5,000 to the Wayne County Development Corporation. This not-for-profit organization was formed in 1991 to facilitate community cooperation and expand economic activity. GRM Networks donated $10,526.66 to the project through its Economic Development Opportunity Funds (EDOF), consisting of unclaimed capital credits of former GRM Networks cooperative members from Iowa. The donations will help the Walldogs Mural Festival in Wayne County from August 30 to September 4, 2023, with educational materials, videos, Mural Trail maps, signage, marketing materials, and QR codes linked to online mural descriptions and history. One hundred fifty artists from twenty-six states and five countries will gather to paint sixteen murals featuring highlights from Wayne County.

“The connections artists make with other artists and the local community set the Walldogs events apart,” said local artist Nancy Bennett. “These events bring out the creative parts of people in the community as they see what’s being painted, and it’s really special to see how communities come together through the art festival. It’s also an opportunity for artists to find kindred spirits and learn from others in the art community.”

The Walldogs Mural Festival’s 30th anniversary will highlight new murals in Corydon and the surrounding communities.

The Wayne Theater will feature Jesse James Bank Robbery, designed by Joe and Ben Diaz of Pontiac, Ill., and Gone with the Wind, created by Miranda Ensink from Amsterdam, Netherlands. Other mural topics in Corydon include Come, Come Ye Saints, One Hundred Years of Batteries, and Farm Aid.

GRM Networks supports this project as part of its Smart Rural Community initiative. The Smart Rural Community program promotes rural broadband networks and broadbandenabled applications critical to rural communities, encouraging innovative economic development and enabling remote education, telehealth, precision agriculture, telecommuting, and other services. As part of the Walldogs Mural Festival, an online Mural Trail will serve as a digital guide to help visitors discover the murals.

“As a telecommunications provider, it is our responsibility and duty to provide vital communications technology for our customers,” said Mitchell Bailey, Chief Executive Officer of GRM Networks. “Fiber optic networks provide rural areas access to services and information, enhancing the quality of life.”

“It’s incredible to see how the community is coming together to host the Walldogs,” said the festival committee chair Sara Wampler. “People are opening their homes to host visiting artists. Local organizations are serving meals. Seeing these small towns rally together around a big artistic vision is amazing. Rural areas face many challenges, but it’s inspiring to see a handful of people make an outsized impact and create lasting improvements.” For more information, please visit waynecountydevelopmentcorp.com/walldogs.

Michael Jordison (GRM Networks), Brett Fetters (Walldogs Committee), Nancy Bennett (Wayne County Development and Walldogs Committee), Sara Wampler (Walldogs Committee) and Bonita Wells (Walldogs Committee).

AUREON GRANTS

The Amana Heritage Society

The Amana Heritage Society will use their grant funds to purchase a theft, fire, and water security system in their School House to help protect the priceless collections from potential theft or destruction.

The North Liberty Community Pantry

The North Liberty Community Pantry will use their grant funds to purchase two new computers, docking stations, monitors and peripherals to help the pantry provide more efficient operations and customer service.

The Wishes for Wildlife Foundation

The Wishes for Wildlife Foundation will use their grant funds for Phase 2 of their “Sustainable Wildlife Food Source” project that focuses on planting green browse food plots for wildlife, while also keeping pollinators at the forefront, in efforts to encourage the balance of natural ecosystems and pollination.

Safe Haven of Iowa County

Safe Haven of Iowa County will use grant funds to purchase three custom-built dog room dividers to serve as a barrier between the dogs in their kennels and the dogs being walked by, creating a safer environment for the dogs and volunteers.

The Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa

The Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa will use their grant funds to purchase items for their new program - JA BizTown® Mobile where students can simulate purchasing and learn the value of money and business development.

The Amana Benefited Fire District

The Amana Benefited Fire District will use grant funds to replace the Amana Fire Department’s outdated thermal imaging camera to allow teams to split up for a more rapid assessment of the dangers.

Ransomware Attacks: Early Detection and Rapid Response

By Jordan Neal - IT Security Engineer

In our tech-driven world, ransomware poses an increasingly severe threat to businesses. Understanding ransomware signs and optimal response strategies can significantly reduce potential damage.

Recognizing Ransomware

Ransomware is malicious software encrypting a victim’s files, with the attacker demanding a ransom to restore access. Detection signs include:

1. File Renaming/Encryption: Inaccessible files, often renamed or encrypted.

2. System Slowness: Significant resource usage by ransomware can affect system performance.

3. Network Activity: High network traffic to unfamiliar locations could suggest a ransomware infection or exfiltration of sensitive information.

4. Ransom Messages: Attackers typically communicate their plans with pop-ups or text documents.

5. New Files/Applications: Unfamiliar files or applications can indicate malware presence.

Responding to Ransomware Attacks

Upon detecting a ransomware attack, immediate actions are:

1. Isolate Infected Systems: Disconnect affected devices to prevent further spread.

2. Prevent Further Damage: Use appropriate countermeasures like security patches or antivirus updates.

3. Contact Cybersecurity Insurance: Inform your insurance provider to receive guidance and potential cost coverage.

4. Evaluate Impact: Identify affected systems and data to inform subsequent actions and communication plans.

Aftermath Management

The impacts of a ransomware attack extend beyond the immediate crisis:

1. Transparent Communication: Keep employees and clients updated while adhering to confidentiality rules.

2. Investigation and Analysis: Work with IT professionals to understand the attack and prevent future incidents.

3. Enhance Security: Leverage the incident to improve cybersecurity via training, upgrades, or revised protocols.

4. Regulatory Compliance: Comply with any necessary regulatory reporting obligations.

Staying alert to ransomware signs and ensuring a swift and effective response can protect your organization from significant harm. Cybersecurity is an ongoing commitment requiring vigilance and adaptation to a changing threat landscape.

SOLUTION HIGHLIGHTS & UPDATES

Aureon’s Cloud WAN

Cloud WAN leverages cloud-based software to manage Wide Area Network (WAN) connections, carriers, and overall functionality instead of relying on manual programming of on-premise hardware. Aureon has recently made updates to Cloud WAN, including changing its hardware vendor to Fortinet, which Aureon already utilized for Managed Firewall.

Visit www.aureon.com/network/sd-wan to learn more!

Aureon Classic Update

It came to our attention that not all score cards made it back from Otter Creek to us before we announced the winning team. We would like to congratulate the following team that won!

Timothy Fencl Danville Mutual Telephone Company

Josh Hveem Omnitel

Joe Gerot Retired

Mark Pietig Omnitel

Dave Duncan Iowa Communications Alliance

Ray Warner Aureon

Iowa Bankers Association – Annual Convention

SEPTEMBER 17 - 19

DES MOINES, IA | COMM. CHOICE CONV. CTR.

The IBA Annual Convention offers many opportunities for you to participate in networking and educational sessions, including an exhibit hall, entertainment, nationally known keynote presenters, a wide variety of breakout sessions, a legislative update, an agricultural breakfast, and other great events.

Oracle CloudWorld

SEPTEMBER 18 - 21

LAS VEGAS, NV | THE VENETIAN EXPO

Get more learning from experts, more networking with peers, and more innovations to explore when Oracle CloudWorld returns to Las Vegas on September 18–21, 2023. Designed for all Oracle customers and partners, CloudWorld is the best place to learn about Oracle solutions—including infrastructure, databases, and applications—from the people who build and use them. Don’t miss this chance to discover the insights you need to solve your most complex business challenges.

1623 Farnam Meet in the Middle

SEPTEMBER 21 - 22

OMAHA, NE | THE GREEN ROOM

1623 Farnam’s Meet in the Middle mixer is an annual, invitation-only opportunity to enjoy a spirited round of golf or a challenging scavenger hunt through beautiful Downtown Omaha while interacting with executives from all leading carriers, content, network, engineering, construction, and equipment companies across the U.S.

West Des Moines Chamber First Responders Appreciation Breakfast

SEPTEMBER 21

WEST DES MOINES, IA| EMBASSY CLUB WEST

The First Responders Appreciation Breakfast is held to honor all West Des Moines First Responders. This event is one way residents and the business community can ensure they receive the recognition they deserve. $2,500 has been donated from these events to West Des Moines Public Safety Cadets, an organization dedicated to preparing young adults, ages 14-20 (until their 21st birthday), for careers and leadership in the public safety profession.

NTCA Fall Conference

SEPTEMBER 24 - 27

BOSTON, MA | MARRIOTT COPLEY PLACE AND SHERATON BOSTON

The NTCA 2023 Fall Conference will bring together an industry that remains in the spotlight to explore and discuss future-proof technologies for a more connected rural America. Participate in conversations about funding and investments in broadband infrastructure and engage in content and programming focused on innovations and technologies that will expand and improve rural networks, essential for improving economic opportunity.

NECA Expo

SEPTEMBER 29 - OCTOBER 2

PHILADELPHIA, PA | PA CONVENTION CENTER

NECA opens the doors and invites the entire industry to participate annually in the #1 electrical industry trade show. Attendees come from all 50 states and several countries to discover innovative new solutions that will benefit their bottom line. Their success is your success. Join us – it’s good for your business.

DattoCon*

OCTOBER 2 - 4

MIAMI, FL | INTERCONTINENTAL MIAMI

At Kaseya DattoCon, you’ll get savvy about security as you witness the unveiling of Datto’s most powerful cybersecurity solutions to date and gain technical insights from industry experts. We encourage you to bring your entire team! Everyone from tech to exec will leave Kaseya DattoCon with real-world business strategies to implement the minute you’re back at the office.

ABI Iowa Manufacturing Conference & Legends in Manufacturing Awards*

OCTOBER 4

ANKENY, IA | FFA CENTER

The Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s Manufacturing Conference brings together experts to provide insight and advice on Iowa manufacturers’ top challenges and opportunities, from utilizing new technology to finding new markets. Manufacturers from across the state will also gather to celebrate icons in the industry at the Legends in Manufacturing Awards, organized by Elevate Iowa, a program of ABI.

Incompas

OCTOBER 8 - 10

TAMPA, FL | FLORIDA BALLROOM

There is no better way for competitive communications professionals to expand their network and strengthen their existing relationships than at The INCOMPAS Show. This streamlined event facilitates meaningful exchanges that lead to business deals and pipeline building. The INCOMPAS Show is optimized to make the most of your valuable time. Participating in The INCOMPAS Show will give you access to critical networking opportunities combined with a comprehensive, industry-relevant education program featuring top-quality presenters and speakers.

Iowa Hospital Association Annual Meeting*

OCTOBER 10 - 11

DES MOINES, IA | COMM. CHOICE CONV. CTR. Join your healthcare colleagues to share, learn, and celebrate with us at the 2023 IHA Annual Meeting in Des Moines, Oct. 10-11. As hospital leaders grapple with myriad issues, including staffing and mounting financial pressures, recharging goals and missions is vital to successfully rebuilding and energizing teams. This year’s annual meeting will offer valuable insights into renewing administrative and clinical values.

Iowa IT Symposium

OCTOBER 11

ALTOONA, IA | PRAIRIE MEADOWS EVENT CENTER

The Iowa IT Symposium is designed with the IT executive in mind. It is meant to serve as a conduit for IT professionals to build a stronger professional peer network and attain real-world knowledge on businesschanging technology and management solutions.

Calix Connexions*

OCTOBER 14 - 17

LAS VEGAS, NV| WYNN LAS VEGAS RESORT & SPA

Calix knows that a simplified business model with excited subscribers enables even the smallest provider to take on the consumer giants and win. Engage with your peers, industry visionaries, design experts, marketing gurus, and more at our thought-provoking conference in Las Vegas this fall. Join us for sessions to build winning teams and explore industry trends.

Xchange Nexgen*

OCTOBER 15 - 18

HOUSTON, TX | MARRIOTT MARQUIS HOUSTON

NexGen is custom designed for services-led and cloud-focused managed services professionals who want to capitalize on a managed services market that will generate an estimated 329 billion by 2025. Highvelocity MSPs attend the event to: explore the future of technology, gain actionable intelligence on market trends, add strategic, long-term partners, connect with trusted peers, and grow recurring revenue streams.

Nanog 89

OCTOBER 16 - 18

SAN DIEGO, CA| TBD

NANOG focuses on developing an open, secure, and robust internet. Its goal is to bring together professionals and share their latest internet technologies and industry best practices while discussing the community’s current challenges. The meeting goal is to offer a platform that encourages, educates, and enables the community to collaborate in creating a better and safer internet for the future.

CCA Annual Convention*

OCTOBER 17 - 19

ATLANTA, GA | ATLANTA MARRIOTT MARQUIS

CCA’s Annual Convention is the only North American event to focus exclusively on smart strategies, technology innovations, and business opportunities for carriers in this increasingly mobile world. As a result, it brings together more senior decision-makers from more carrier organizations than any other trade show in the US.

SCTE Cable-Tec Expo 2023*

OCTOBER 16 - 19

DENVER, CO | COLORADO CONVENTION CENTER

Thousands of global broadband technology and cable media professionals will gather at the SCTE® Cable-Tec Expo®, the preeminent venue for thought leadership, engineering innovation, and deal-making within the broadband telecommunications sector.

Women Lead Change Conference

OCTOBER 18 - 19

DES MOINES, IA | COMM. CHOICE CONV. CTR

Take charge and lead change at the 2023 Women Lead Change Conference: Des Moines. Two days of tactical leadership development, peer-to-peer networking, and more for women leaders and allies.

EVENTS CONT.

Iowa Bankers AssociationTechnology Conference*

OCTOBER 24 - 25

DES MOINES, IA| HOLIDAY INN AIRPORT Technology and innovation have been transforming financial services long before AI and iPhones became frequent topics. From the revolutions brought by ATMs, debit cards, and internet banking, technology is at the forefront to improve access and better serve customers and industry needs. To help you, the Iowa Bankers Association offers a two-day conference with the ideas and information you need to be a successful technology officer.

Connectbase Customer Summit 2023*

OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 1

BOSTON, MA | BOSTON MARRIOTT COPLEY PLACE

Please mark your calendar to join us in historic Boston for the next gathering of the Connectbase ecosystem. Learn what’s in store for the platform, connect with industry partners, hear from technology experts, and share your insights and success stories with your peers.

ICA CX Summit

NOVEMBER 1 - 2

WEST DES MOINES, IA | HILTON GARDEN INN

We live in a world where customer experience (CX), expectations, and satisfaction are higher than ever. This event was created to equip attendees with best practices and thought leadership to advance in an ever-demanding world. Sessions will tackle how to bring your community the best possible service to better their subscriber experience. You’ll learn how to improve customer satisfaction, marketing tactics, CX trends, and peer networking opportunities.

Technology of Iowa Prometheus Awards

NOVEMBER 2

DES MOINES, IA | COMM. CHOICE CONV. CTR.

The 2023 Prometheus Awards will bring together technology pioneers, industry leaders, educators, and government representatives to honor the past year’s most remarkable achievements and successes throughout Iowa’s tech industry.

Kansas City Cyber Security Conference

NOVEMBER 9

OVERLAND PARK, KS | OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER

The KC Cyber Security Conference is designed with the IT executive in mind. It is meant to serve as a conduit for IT professionals to build a stronger professional peer network and attain real-world knowledge on businesschanging technology and management solutions.

Iowa Bankers AssociationCompliance Conference*

NOVEMBER 15 - 16

ALTOONA, IA | PRAIRIE MEADOWS EVENT CENTER

This conference has been developed explicitly for experienced compliance professionals who require the most up-to-date information affecting regulatory compliance. Attendees should have a working knowledge of compliance and applicable regulations.

DANIELLE

J.D.

TODD

Todd.VanEpps@Aureon.com CAREY

Carey.Stover@Aureon.com