THE HALLS
Top tech gifts for 2024. PAGE 6-7 A new era of connection at the Zoo. PAGE 3 COMPANY NEWS Annual Meeting election notice and new hiring news.
COMMUNITY GRANT AWARDS
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Co-Bank, RDFC and Common Cents Awards.
Applications open for 2025 program.
PAGE 4
Protecting yourself during the holidays. PAGE 5
PAGE 8-9
As we close the books on 2024, I am proud to say it has been a milestone year for Red River Communications — the most successful one in our 73-year history. Thanks to our customers’ trust and our team’s dedication, we have expanded our network with five large fiber construction build projects, upgraded our services, and embraced new technologies that enhance the way homes and businesses stay connected.
However, with growth comes responsibility, and one of the most critical areas we are focusing on moving forward is cybersecurity.
In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. Whether you’re managing a household or running a business, the risk of cyberattacks is continually changing. This year, we have witnessed a significant increase in security breaches impacting both everyday internet users and various businesses.
Rest assured, protecting your personal data, financial information, and business operations is no longer just a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s why we are committed to not only providing fast and reliable broadband but also equipping our customers with the tools and knowledge to safeguard their online presence. Your security is our top priority. Check out the article on page four for more information.
As we look ahead to 2025 and beyond, our vision for the future of connectivity is one where speed, security, and innovation go hand in hand. We’re already exploring the next wave of advancements while protecting your privacy and data. Our team is working tirelessly to stay ahead of the curve so you can feel confident that your connection to the digital world is fast and secure.
Thank you for your continued support as we chart a course into this exciting future. Have a happy and safe holiday season,
- Tom Steinolfson, CEO/GM
PAGES 10
TOM STEINOLFSON CEO/ GENERAL MANAGER
“In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. Whether you’re managing a household or running a business, the risk of cyberattacks is continually changing.”
Mark your calendars for the Red River Rural Telephone Association (DBA Red River Communications)
Join us for a delicious meal, exciting demonstrations, a video game station, a brief business meeting, and door prizes! All members and their families are welcome. No RSVP is necessary.
Anyone interested in being nominated for the Red River Rural Telephone Association (dba Red River Communications) Board of Directors can collect signatures on a petition & submit their completed form by Feb. 28th, 2025.
Three districts are up for election, with the following incumbent directors seeking re-election:
District 2 - Barnesville - Wayne Schindler
District 5 - Kent - Gary Boutiette
District 8 - Fairmount/Hankinson - Ron German
• Be a member of the exchange they would represent.
• Currently lives in exchange they would represent & have lived there for at least 90 days in the last 12 months.
• Not a current or past employee.
• No financial conflict of interest in other ventures.
• Not convicted of a federal or state crime.
• Not closely related to a board member or current employee.
• Be willing to attend monthly, state, and national meetings as required.
CONTACT OUR BUSINESS OFFICE AT 701-553-8309 TO OBTAIN A PETITION OR FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
We are excited to announce that David Westerkamp has joined our team as a Fiber Splicer. In this role, he will be responsible for ensuring the quality of fiber splicing in our outside plant.
David made the move from Arizona in search of a new adventure and to escape the heat. He previously worked for a telecommunications company where he gained two years of overall fiber optic experience.
David is passionate about fiber splicing and case buildout. He is eager to explore our network and plant design processes and looks forward to becoming an integral part of our team.
In addition to his professional skills, David is an excellent cook specializing in traditional Mexican cuisine. He enjoys watching various movies and has a keen interest in trucks and motorcycles.
Welcome, David; we look forward to many years to come!
The most “wonderful time of the year” is also the busiest for cyber cybercriminals.
Cybersecurity threats are not just a passing concern but a constant and severe issue. With millions — even billions — of incidents happening daily, cyberattacks seriously threaten individuals, businesses, and even major service providers.
Internet providers, like us at Red River, are now being classified alongside the healthcare, water, and energy sectors as critical national infrastructure (CNI) due to the number of essential services that rely on an internet connection. This makes our industry a prime target for cybercriminals using tactics such as phishing scams, malware and ransomware.
So, in response, our internal teams are unwavering in their commitment to doing everything they can to secure and protect our network and internal systems. You can trust that we are constantly working to keep your data safe.
As we enter the holiday season, when digital activity skyrockets with online shopping, it’s worth revisiting some precautions to protect your personal data, property and peace of mind this season.
1. Don’t wait to update: Keep all devices up to date with basic security measures.
2. Lock it up: Secure your accounts with unique, strong passwords.
3. Twice as nice: Enable Multifactor Authentication whenever possible.
4. Be safe on social media; don’t overshare, and take time to review your privacy settings on the platforms you use.
5. Shop through trusted sources: Always visit retailers’ websites by typing their URLs directly into your browser. Make sure they are legit before giving payment info.
6. Guest network: Create a separate guest network for visitors, adding an extra layer of protection to your home network.
7. Be wary of ads, giveaways, and contests that seem too good to be true. These scams run rampant during the holiday season!
ULTIMATE FIBERFAST™ WI-FI protects your home network by blocking threats, viruses and intrusions on ALL connected. CALL TODAY TO UPGRADE YOUR WI-FI FOR ONLY $6/MONTH!
The holiday season is fast approaching, and if you’re shopping for a tech lover, you’re in luck! From the latest gadgets to cutting-edge tools for productivity, here’s a roundup of the top tech-focused Christmas gifts for 2024, plus five great options that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for something innovative or just fun, there’s something here for everyone.
1. APPLE VISION PRO HEADSET
Next-generation mixed-reality headset that combines augmented and virtual reality. It’s one of the most anticipated tech releases of the year! Starting at $3,499, Apple.com
2. PLAYSTATION 5 SLIM: A sleek, updated version of the original PS5, making it more spaceefficient without compromising on power. $499, BestBuy.com
3. KINDLE SCRIBE: A perfect gift for bookworms and note-takers. The e-reader allows users to read and write on the same device. $339, Amazon.com
4. LOONA – AI-POWERED SMART ROBOT:
This interactive robot pet responds to touch and voice commands and features app-based remote control. It integrates ChatGPT for dynamic interactions, entertaining kids with tricks & games. $499.90, KeyiRobot.com
5. POWERUP 4.0 SMARTPHONE CONTROLLED PAPER AIRPLANE: Turn a simple paper airplane, or balsa wood or cardboard plane, into a fully functioning RC Airplane. $59.99, Amazon.com.
6. CROSLEY VOYAGER TURNTABLE WITH BLUETOOTH : This record player may look retro but it’s decidedly modern, with Bluetooth technology that allows you to play records through wireless speakers or stream music via bluetooth. $99, CrosleyRadio.com
7. LINEN WIRELESS PHONE CHARGER:
Cut cable clutter & keep stuff powered up with one of these elegant charging stations. $40, UncommonGoods.com
CHECK
1. 3. 2. 4. 6.
5. 7.
*All names, likenesses, and logos are copyright of its respective owners.
Ask anyone in the twin towns of Breckenridge, MN and Wahpeton, ND; the Chahinkapa Zoo is a permanent fixture. An integral part of life for locals and a big draw for tourism -- with 70,000 visitors per year -- The Zoo is genuinely magical. What could have been less magical was the tendency of traditional wireless to quit working when they needed it most.
Zoo Director Kathy Diekman describes what it was like to train high school students for the admissions booths at either the zoo entrance or the carousel and
then receive call after call asking what they should do if they can’t run a credit card because the wireless internet signal gave out! Diekman says that, especially on rainy days, employees would be scrambling to determine which parts of the sprawling 18-acre zoo still had internet connection. They sometimes had to resort to cash only.
All of this confusion slowed the lines, frustrating workers and guests alike, and ultimately hurting their bottom line. What they needed, Diekman says, was a dependable, consistent connection at multiple locations (Prairie Rose Carousel, Gift Shop, Rhino Building, Nature Center, and Entrance) for Chahinkapa
Zoo to put their best paw forward into this era where people are more likely to pay with an app than to carry cash.
It was a quick and painless process! Diekman recalls the experts at Red River Communications took care of everything, and once work began, it only took a few days of a wonderfully non-invasive operation. Diekman and the rest of the zoo were informed of all the steps along the way, and the park remained open during installation. “Seamless,” says Diekman. Now guests can use their cards, communication between locations is reliable, and everyone can focus on the animals.
Chahinkapa Zoo was established in 1933. Diekman describes a roadside attraction. It was the first zoo in North Dakota, and the mission to establish a place of conservation, education, and recreation had yet to be cemented. Today, under the direction of Diekman, who has been with the zoo since 1991 and was named Director in 1994, Chahinkapa Zoo is known for lighting a spark in people, both young and old. Diekman likes to call it a “window into the wild” and hopes that those attending will learn about animals and what humans can do to help them. It is a mission in motion with classes and events, well-educated zoo keepers, information posted throughout the grounds, professional partners, community involvement, and a widespread social media presence.
employees, animals from 6 out of 7 continents, and hope to someday soon service giraffes and lions; everyone is relieved that fiber internet has been a “night and day” difference for their needs. Also, they are hiring a new Zoo Keeper, “Do you know anyone?” asks Diekman.
If you want to know more about FiberFAST internet, phone system or additonal services for your business, call Red River Communications at 701-553-8309 or go to redrivercomm.com/business
Diekman says that the best part of this is that the zoo constantly changes and improves. Having gone from one fulltime employee and a few animals to 11 full-time
The Chahinkapa Zoo offers various events, classes, and field trips, as well as seasonal zoo visits, in Wahpeton, ND. Learn more make a donation at www.chahinkapazoo.org.
Red River is excited to partner with grant programs that make a significant impact on our community. Recently, the CoBank Sharing Success matching grant program and the Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) announced a total of $23,000 in grants for seven community organizations.
Over the last 12 years, the CoBank Sharing Success program has awarded millions to various groups, including volunteer fire departments and local schools. This year, four awards were given through this program.
COBANK GRANT AWARDS:
• Barnesville Ambulance: $5,400 for a Handtevy pediatric dosing machine
• Hawley Emergency Response Team (HERT): $4,300 for a patient carbon dioxide monitor
• Lidgerwood-Hankinson Rural Health Clinics: $5,300 for a parking lot pad to accommodate the mammography truck
• Richland-Wilkin Emergency Food Pantry: $5,000 for parking lot drainage and improvements
As a Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) member, Red River also provides grants of up to $3,000 for community-based projects. This year, three awards were given through the RDFC.
RDFC AWARDS:
• Lidgerwood-Hankinson Rural Health Clinics: $1,000 for a parking lot pad to accommodate the mammography truck
• Friends of the Leach Public Library: $1,000 to digitize archived newspapers
• Lidgerwood Childcare: $1,000 for a sunshade and a diaper-changing cart
Common Cents is a low-cost program for Red River Communications subscribers to give back to the community. Since 2008, it has donated nearly $230,000 to local individuals and nonprofits.
Subscribers can voluntarily round up their monthly bills to the nearest dollar, with the extra funds overseen by a board that meets quarterly to review applications and distribute donations.
Red Door Gallery Board Members accept a Commen Cents award for $500 to
Shelly Wolfe, Common Cents Board Member, presents $500 to the Humane Society of Richland/Wilkin.
Red Door Art Gallery - $500 toward an iPad & display monitors Humane Society of Richland-Wilkin - $500 for new scrubs
Great Bend Volunteer Firefighters - $2,500 for turnout gear
Abercrombie Park Museum - $2,000 to build a tractor playset
Grant Applications Due Quarterly: March 1, June 1, Sept. 1, Dec. 1 Learn more at redrivercomm.com/common-cents-program
Red River Communications is offering scholarships to high school seniors pursuing higher education in vocational fields or general studies.
Our Scholarship Program supports students in our service area who have shown academic excellence by providing financial assistance. Starting December 1st, eligible students can apply for one of twelve $1,000 scholarships.
This holiday season, consider helping a high school student graduating in spring 2025 complete a Red River scholarship application. It’s a meaningful gift for their future.
• GENERAL SCHOLARSHIP
• VOCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP
• TECHNICAL SCHOLARSHIP
• AGRICULTURAL SCHOLARSHIP
We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our new Red River Communications website this December! You’ll quickly find information about our services, internet options, and account management with improved navigation and a mobile-optimized design.
We can’t wait for you to explore the revamped site, your go-to resource for connectivity in our community!
Check it out at:
Bally Sports North has rebranded itself as FanDuel Sports Network. You can find channels 33 & 34 in our Choice TV Package. To see a full channel line-up, go to redrivercomm.com/residential/tv.
2025 PHONE DIRECTORY: Our team is compiling the next phone directory, which will be published and mailed to current landline phone customers in January 2025. If you would like to opt of of recieving a printed copy of the phone book, please call our office at 701-553-8309.
TV RATE INCREASES - COMING JANUARY 2025: Red River is currently in negotiations regarding TV rate increases along with adding new channels to our current lineups. Changes will be communicated on your January 2025 bill.
Holiday 2024
Volume 9, Issue 3
The Red River Communications CONNECT newsletter is published quarterly and distributed free of charge to our members and customers in North Dakota, Minnesota and South Dakota.
Harlan Deike President
District 4 - Great Bend
Rhonda Erbes Vice-President
District 3 - Colfax
Gary Boutiette
Secretary/Treasurer
District 5 - Kent
Tim Viland
District 1 - Abercrombie
Wayne Schindler
District 2 - Barnesville
Joe Pikarski
District 6 - Mooreton
Jerry Janssen
District 7 - Rollag
Ron German
District 8 - Fairmount/Hankinson
Jan Schmit
District 9 - Lidgerwood/ Wyndmere
Red River Communications 510 Broadway | PO Box 136 Abercrombie, ND 58001
7925 180th Ave SE Wahpeton, ND 58075
Questions? Service issues? Call 866-553-8309
RIVER CONNECT is produced by the Red River Communications Team.
Contributing writers include:
This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
