MLGC 2023 Edition 4

2023 Edition 4

MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT/CEO

Working at MLGC has allowed me to continue my lifelong passion of creating opportunities, delivering exceptional service, and expanding a reliable network across areas of rural North Dakota. This year, we've really stepped up our game and hit some big milestones. It's been a major win for our team, that has involved lots of amazing achievements.

Geographically, our fiber optic network now covers new areas of Cass, Richland, and Steele counties, bringing faster and more reliable connectivity to underserved areas. Our expansion has benefited local businesses including Inspired Designs by Connie Bruse, allowing her to operate more efficiently with a reliable, high-speed connection.

Our commitment goes beyond expansion. We empower our customers to enhance their services with managed WiFi and CommandIQ, giving them the freedom to advance their service according to their needs. (page 6).

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But it's not just about technology for us.

We're deeply committed to supporting the communities we serve. From Cooperstown to Enderlin, Leonard, and beyond, we immerse ourselves in local events. We recently made a sizeable donation to the Kindred Library, demonstrating our dedication to community support.

Our success is driven by our dedicated team, which continues to grow with the addition of talented individuals like Matt Ihland, Kerry King, and Keith Larson.

Together, we strive to reach new heights and deliver on our promise of reliable service.

As we reflect on our accomplishments this year, we strive to continuously grow and improve. We are grateful for the collaboration of inspiring companies, the support of our loyal customers, and the dedication of our incredible team. Our commitment to delivering efficient and essential services at competitive rates remains unwavering.

Thank you for continuing to trust MLGC as your local provider. I am truly astonished by what we have achieved this year and am excited for what the next has in store. Join us as we continue to push boundaries and make a difference.

Thank you for choosing MLGC as your local provider. The progress we have made this year is truly astounding, and we eagerly anticipate what the future holds.

Tyler Kilde President and CEO

mlgc.com

INTRODUCING MLGC'S F-150 FORD LIGHTNING

MLGC DONATION TO KINDRED PUBLIC LIBRARY

MLGC adds the first 100% electric vehicle to our vehicle line-up.

MLGC donates $10,000 to the Kindred Public Library’s “Save the Library Building” fund.

This high-performance truck embodies energy efficiency and our commitment to lightning-fast internet services, with minimal impact on the environment.

MLGC is committed to providing high-speed internet, TV, Surveillance, and telephone services to areas of Kindred, Davenport, Oxbow, and Rural Fargo, along with many more communities and sees the significance of helping communities grow, to provide future services to sustain and improve quality of life.

Featuring a standout MLGC wrap, our revolutionary vehicle is impossible to overlook. Wherever it goes, you can trust that we are delivering top-quality and reliable service to your community.

Join us in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in delivering exceptional internet services, all while fulfilling our responsibility to the environment. Together, we can make a difference.

While we are also in the business of providing information to people, we feel that it is important that people still have access to the information that libraries provide. Libraries offer resources that are essential to allow people to learn and study, while also preserving history. While it is a hub of knowledge, connecting people to information; it also builds and strengthens communities, connecting people to people. Strong communities have been the backbone of our company through our 117 years, and we are happy to help the library as it is a vital part in keeping the Kindred community strong.

The Kindred Public Library appreciates every donation that has been made to the building fund. With the MLGC donation, the library not only reached but surpassed the Kindred Public Library’s financial commitment of $50,000 for the partnership purchase of the “Library Building” with the City of Kindred! These funds will be used towards the building purchase with the exceeded amount placed in a building maintenance fund.

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BRING YOUR FIBER

Are you tired of slow internet in underserved areas? MLGC is here to change that! How might you ask? One word. FIBER. Despite obstacles like weather, supply and demand, legal requirements, and costs – we are dedicated to overcoming these obstacles and bringing you reliable internet connections. Check out our helpful diagram below to understand the process better.

START HERE

Extend the existing network throughout the neighborhood or area

MLGCs 100% Fiber Optic Network

MLGC plans expansion to neighborhoods or underserved areas

Connect your fiber to the ONT (Optical Network Terminal)

Splice and dedicate a single fiber to your home with a fiber drop

Transmit the ONT signal to your router

Router gives Wi-fi Signal connecting you to MLGCs robust fiber network

END HERE With the best Wi-fi from MLGC

TECH TIPS 1 2

Secure Your Account: Always log out of accounts between sessions to protect your information.

Stay Alert: NEVER open attachments or click on links from unknown senders to avoid falling into hacker’s traps.

3 4

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Guard Your Passwords: Do not share your passwords. This can grant unauthorized access to your accounts, both inside and outside of our platform.

Verify Before Opening: Hover or click on email addresses to ensure they're from known sources and not potential threats.

5

Validate Your Payments: Only send money or account information through trusted and secure sources to keep your information safe.

6

Protect Your Family: Be cautious about sharing vacation plans or personal information on social media platforms while you're away to maintain home security… You never know who may be watching.

mlgc.com

MANAGED UPGRADE YOUR ROUTER FOR A FASTER CONNECTION!

WIFI technology for your connectivity needs. Upgrade your router or choose our Managed Wi-Fi service with optional enhancements for a seamless and secure internet experience.

If you're tired of dealing with slow internet, it could be time to replace your router. Even if you have your own router, it's worth considering an upgrade if you're experiencing connectivity issues. The world of technology is constantly advancing, and your trusty old router, even just a few years old, might be holding you back.

Wi-Fi by MLGC. This premium service is designed to enhance your internet experience. For just $10 per month, we'll manage and support your Wi-Fi service, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Plus, you can customize your experience with valuable add-ons like Protect IQ and Experience IQ, essential tools for today's digital world.

For those shopping for a new router, we recommend the latest standard – WiFi6. It guarantees the best performance and features, so you can surf the web or stream your favorite shows without lag or buffering.

Protect IQ adds extra layers of security for your network and devices, while Experience IQ gives advanced users greater control over their network.

Fine-tune and optimize your internet experience with ease.

We are committed to ensuring that you have access to the best and most up-to-date technology to meet your connectivity requirements. Whether you choose to upgrade your router or opt for our Managed Wi-Fi service with optional enhancements, we are here to provide you with a seamless and secure internet experience tailored to your needs.

But if you'd rather skip the hassle, we've got you covered -- Managed

We're dedicated to providing you with the best and most up-to-date

Don't settle for slow connections when better options are available.

COMMANDIQ Manage your Wi-Fi connection and all the devices in your network with MLGC’s CommandIQ app. CommandIQ gives you easy access to a snapshot view of your home or small business network. With the app, you can view all the connected devices on your network, set up parental controls or a guest network, change your SSID and password, and much more. CommandIQ puts YOU in charge and is included with Managed Wi-Fi service!

Compliment CommandIQ by subscribing to additional features that simply make sense for your home: ProtectIQ and ExperienceIQ.

SEE WHO’S ON THE NETWORK YOU CONTROL YOURSELF EVERYTHING IN ONE PLACE ProtectIQ proactively monitors your home’s incoming traffic and automatically blocks anything suspicious, user attempts to harmful websites, and monitors threats from hackers therefore protecting your network and keeping your devices SAFE. ProtectIQ is affordable at $4 per month or with ExperienceIQ is $7 per month.

ExperienceIQ protects children from harmful or inappropriate content, limits screen time on devices or applications, and displays online usage to better understand HOW the internet is being used in your home providing a customizable internet experience.

ExperienceIQ is affordable at $4 per month or with ProtectIQ is $7 per month.

"I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED SUPPORTING THE SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITY. BEING IN THIS COMMUNITY MAKES A HUGE IMPACT FOR BOTH THE CONSUMER AND THE BUSINESS OWNER." – CONNIE BRUSE

INSPIRED DESIGNS A JOURNEY FROM CRAFTS TO ANTIQUES, FUELED BY COMMUNITY AND CONNECTIVITY

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If you are a small business owner with MLGC’s broadband network and would like to be featured in MLGC’s next SYNCUP, contact mlgcmarketing@mlgc.net!

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT BEING A PART OF MLGC’S BROADBAND NETWORK, CONNIE BRUSE HAS DEVELOPED A UNIQUE STOREFRONT THAT DELIVERS ONE-OF-A-KIND ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE ITEMS. Near the quaint town of Horace, North Dakota, Connie Bruse has curated a unique shopping experience at Inspired Designs, a one-of-a-kind storefront that showcases a blend of antique and vintage treasures. As a proud member of MLGC’s Broadband Network, Connie has not only transformed her business but has also become an integral part of the small business community in Horace.

significance of these objects resonates with customers who appreciate the value of a well-curated vintage find.

The story of Inspired Designs is one of evolution and passion. Connie initially started her venture as a crafts store in 1993 on her farm. Over the years, the store has undergone several transformations, shifting from crafts to a fiber abstract art store, and eventually finding its niche as an antique and vintage haven. Inspired Designs has developed its niche by delivering unique products that add a touch of style to any interior architecture design.

This improved connectivity has allowed Connie to exponentially increase traffic to her store.

Connie's journey into the world of antiques and vintage items was inspired by her diverse interests and hobbies.

Her inexhaustible energy finds fulfillment in helping others understand the stories behind each object. "I have always had so much energy," Connie shared. "Getting to help someone understand the story behind an antique/vintage object and having them think 'Oh! That reminds me of my grandma!'"

The store not only features a collection of antique and vintage items but is also renowned for its handmade gifts.

Connie's commitment to supporting the small business community is evident in Inspired Designs' impact on the local Horace community. "I have always loved supporting the small business community," Connie expressed. "Being in this community makes a huge impact for both the consumer and the business owner."

Sourcing antiques from areas around Horace and the Midwest, Connie ensures that each item in her store continues to radiate its unique charm despite the passage of decades. Her dedication to preserving the history and

To thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape, Connie recognized the importance of staying connected. MLGC installed optic fiber internet at Inspired Designs, providing a reliable network for Zoom meetings, customer care connections, superfast internet, and worry-free operations.

"Doing live videos has really impacted my business," Connie remarked. "People’s interest is peaked, and they want to come and see!" With MLGC's broadband network, Connie has seamlessly integrated technology into her small business, enhancing customer engagement and expanding her reach.

Inspired Designs is open every other weekend 10 am to 4 pm and by appointment, except for January and February.

Connie Bruse's commitment to the community, coupled with her unique offerings and improved connectivity, ensures that Inspired Designs remains a cherished destination for antique enthusiasts and those seeking handmade treasures.

Just outside the town of Horace, Inspired Designs stands as a testament to the resilience of small businesses and the transformative power of community support.

MLGC is proud to support local, small businesses, just like Inspired Designs. Learn more on Facebook at Inspired Designs by Connie.

(701) 866-7006 4293 168th Ave SE, Horace, ND inspired-designs-by-connie-bruse.business.site

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FIBER BROADBAND EXPANDS TO EASTERN NORTH DAKOTA COMPANIES INVEST IN STATE'S RURAL COMMUNITIES (Durbin, ND) — Rural broadband providers broke ground today on a series of multimillion dollar projects that will deliver leading-edge fiber broadband technology to rural communities across Eastern North Dakota and Western Minnesota. A groundbreaking ceremony near Casselton today was hosted by Halstad Telephone Company, MLGC, Polar Communications, Red River Communications, and BEK Communications Cooperative.

"The people living in this region have been waiting a long time for this to happen," says Tom Steinolfson, CEO/GM

of Red River Communications. "Speaking on behalf of my broadband colleagues across the state, we are thrilled to be able to fulfill the promise to the residents of these underserved and unserved communities who have been waiting a long time to enjoy the same connectivity as some of their neighbors in more populated areas."

In total, these rural broadband providers are building nearly $130 million worth of fiber broadband, funded by four separate state and federal funding sources, including the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

COMPANY

COUNTIES

DOLLARS

BEK Communications Cooperative

Barnes, Cass, Ransom

$21,017,520

Halstad Telephone Company

Cass, Grand Forks, Traill

$12,275,934

MLGC

Cass, Richland, Steele

$31,000,000

Polar Communications

Walsh, Grand Forks, Traill, Steele

$49,626,551

Red River Communications

Richland

$15,272,494

"Our focus is to ensure that every resident in North Dakota has access to high-speed broadband, leveling the playing field between urban and rural communities," says Karl Blake, CEO of Polar Communications. "North Dakota has always been the most connected state in America. With these recent funds, we'll be that much closer to 100% connectivity."

The transformational technology upgrade will generate a surge of benefits including: igniting economic opportunities for local businesses and agricultural operations, enabling rural students to realize their educational aspirations with better access to online learning platforms, strengthening healthcare services through improved telehealth capabilities, and bolstering public safety by improving communications infrastructure.

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"This is a game changer for us," says Clay Erdmann, Regional Sales Manager for Mustang Seeds, a seed supply company located just three miles south of Casselton. "We'll be able to run our business much more efficiently with a reliable, faster connection," "This is an unprecedented opportunity taking place in Eastern North Dakota," says Steinolfson. "We want to take a moment to thank the Governor's office, our state's congressional delegation, local and state legislators, and county officials for helping to secure the funding needed to make these projects a reality. Also, we thank the residents and businesses of our rural communities for your resilience and patience throughout this process."

Call your local broadband provider to learn about project details and to sign up for services.

mlgc.com

FRESH FACES How long have you been @ MLGC? Since November of 2022.

How long have you been @ MLGC? Since August of 2023.

What is your job title and role @ MLGC? Customer Service Representative. Mainly answering phone calls and helping visitors that come to the office, but I have many different things I assist with.

What is your job title and role @ MLGC? Operations Manager. Oversee all aspects of plant department, including OSP and Network. Some regulatory as it relates to plant.

What has been your favorite part of working @ MLGC? Honestly, the people, everyone is friendly and helpful in any way they can. Providing quality and dependable services to our rural communities is a bonus.

What is the most interesting job you have had?

Fleet Farm and Dollar General, being able to meet and help so many different people.

Best vacation you have been to? Where would you like to travel to?

Mexico, I was able to travel to three different cities. Alaska .

What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

I raise rabbits for show, 4-H and emotional assistance. Riding horses when I can and working with the cattle and sheep.

What are your top three life highlights?

Getting married, our three kids, two of which are twins, and going to Wyoming.

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received?

A big heart and nice phone voice.

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

Depending on the day, a night owl.

What is your favorite season?

It would have to be Fall.

What has been your favorite part of working @ MLGC? The staff. Very welcoming, friendly and knowledgeable group.

What is the most interesting job you have had?

IT Sales for a Managed Service Provider. The interesting thing was learning how MSP and ISP industries are vastly different, yet similar and complement each other well.

Best vacation you have been to? Where would you like to travel to?

Best vacation has been Maui, Hawaii. Would love to travel to Europe someday. My wife and I would love to visit the countries that are a part of our heritage, we have Scandinavian and German heritage and would be fun to see those areas.

What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?

Cooking and yard work around the home. Boating in the summer and snowmobiling in the winter. High School sports. Tinkering with cars and working on old tractors.

What are your top three life highlights?

Having a family I’m proud of. Being able to travel (with family).

Owning a family business.

Best concert you’ve ever been to?

The Eagles .

What is the best compliment you’ve ever received?

I have a good work ethic.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?

Extrovert.

What is your favorite season?

Fall.

KERRY KING

MATT IHLAND

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WAYS TO PAY PAYMENT OPTIONS

Payments are due each month on the 15th. We are happy to work with our valued customers if a special circumstance comes up. Please call our office to make an arrangement.

Enroll in paperless/electronic billing (E-Bill) and receive a one-time $5 credit Enroll in automatic payments using a bank account or credit card and receive a $5 per month credit for 12 months!

We highly recommend signing up for SmartHub. Not only can you manage statements and payments, but we also use SmartHub for all customer notifications. If we have an outage or planned maintenance, we will use SmartHub to notify you. You are able to opt in for emails, texts, etc.

SMARTHUB

Why SmartHub? With SmartHub you can manage your account easily and securely from your computer or mobile app. Each month, SmartHub will send you a notice that your MLGC bill is available to view or make your payment. You can schedule your payment, set up paperless/electronic billing (E-Bill), and even set up automatic payments from your bank account or credit card. You can also view billing history, track your internet usage and more! Making payments through SmartHub is easy and safe. The first time you make a payment you will be able to securely store your payment for future transactions and make your next payment with only a couple of clicks. Go to MLGC SmartHub - https://mlgc.smarthub.coop/Login.html Make a one-time online payment using our SMARTHUB PAY NOW option. No need for an online account.

Go to https://mlgc.smarthub.coop/PayNow.html

PAY-BY-PHONE

DROP BOX

Call toll free 1-844-210-8263 to make a payment via phone using a Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or checking/savings account. This system is automated, and all your personal information will be entered by YOU. You will need your MLGC account number.

Use our outdoor drop boxes located in a few service areas to deliver payment. Payments placed in the drop box will be processed by the end of the next business day. Be sure to include account number, name, and address.

MAIL

Stop by one of our offices and deliver your payment in person. Offices are open Monday-Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. You can also call our offices during these hours and pay with a representative over the phone via bank account or credit card.

ENDERLIN, ND - 301 Dewey St COOPERSTOWN, ND - 905 Lenham Avenue SE

IN PERSON

Mail checks or money orders payable to MLGC. Please do not send cash via the Postal Service.

PO Box 66 Enderlin, ND 58027 PO Box 506 Cooperstown, ND 58425

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IN THE COMMUNITY COOPERSTOWN

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301 Dewey St. Enderlin, ND 58027 1-877-893-6542 mlgc.com

MLGC'S DEDICATED TEAM

LARRY CONSTRUCTION 51 YEARS OF SERVICE

WANDA CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE 11 YEARS OF SERVICE

ROBERT COMBINATION TECH 2 YEARS OF SERVICE

MARTIN NETWORK CUSTOMER SUPPORT, SECURITY SALES 27 YEARS OF SERVICE

JOEL COMBINATION TECH 8 YEARS OF SERVICE

ANDREW COMBINATION TECH 1 YEAR OF SERVICE

ERIC COMBINATION TECH 7 YEARS OF SERVICE

JAMES COMBINATION TECH 1 YEAR OF SERVICE

CLAY COMBINATION TECH 4 YEARS OF SERVICE

DAWSON SALES REPRESENTATIVE, MARKETING 1 YEAR OF SERVICE

CHRISTOPHER NETWORK MANAGER 4 YEARS OF SERVICE

KERRY CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE 1 YEAR OF SERVICE

MEGAN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT 3 YEARS OF SERVICE

KEITH CFO <1 YEAR OF SERVICE

JARED COMBINATION TECH 3 YEARS OF SERVICE

CHRISTINA ACCOUNTS PAYABLE <1 YEAR OF SERVICE

RICKY COMBINATION TECH 2 YEARS OF SERVICE

MATTHEW OPERATIONS MANAGER <1 YEAR OF SERVICE

RUDOLPH PLANT MANAGER - COOPERSTOWN 26 YEARS OF SERVICE SHELIE BUSINESS MANAGER 25 YEARS OF SERVICE LOREN NETWORK SUPPORT TECHNICIAN 23 YEARS OF SERVICE TYLER PRESIDENT, GM 21 YEARS OF SERVICE BRADLEY PLANT MANAGER - ENDERLIN, KINDRED 19 YEARS OF SERVICE DION VICE PRESIDENT 17 YEARS OF SERVICE

In t he kit chen wit h

TIM OFFICE MANAGER - COOPERSTOWN 2 YEARS OF SERVICE

JOYCE BROWN

YCE JO

Corporate Secretary

BEAN HAM SOUP Serves: 3 ½ quarts Ingredients: 2 ½ cups dry navy beans (16 oz.)

1 – 3 lb. meaty ham bone 3 qts. water 1 cup coarsely chopped celery 1 ½ cups coarsely chopped carrots 1 ¼ cups coarsely chopped potatoes 1 ¼ cups coarsely chopped onion ½ tsp. salt ¼ tsp. pepper 3 dashes bottled hot pepper sauce

Instructions: Rinse beans.

Place in a large Dutch oven with the ham bone & water.

Bring to boiling, reduce & simmer.

Keep covered until beans are tender (3-3½ hours).

Remove bone & meat.

Coarsely chop meat & add it back to soup along with the remaining ingredients.

Discard the bone.

Simmer 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. *Add more salt, pepper, & hot pepper sauce for spicier soup.