At RTC Networks, we understand how essential high-speed fiber internet is to your everyday life. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce exciting updates to our internet speeds and pricing!
In October, most of our members received significant speed upgrades—some doubling, and others increasing by five times their previous speeds. You may be wondering why RTC Networks has made these changes. The answer is simple: as your needs evolve, we’re committed to adapting our services to provide the best possible internet experience while staying competitive and true to our cooperative values. We’re also focused on ensuring that your online experience is safe and secure. That’s why every member benefits from ProtectIQ and ExperienceIQ (Parental Controls) as part of our service. These features, along with your Wi-Fi router, are included at no extra cost with your internet service—giving you peace of mind with no hidden fees.
Speaking of transparency, we’re proud to support the FCC’s efforts to keep broadband pricing clear and honest for all consumers. You’ll now see Broadband Fact Labels on our website and in SmartHub, similar to the nutrition labels on food packaging. These labels make it easier for you to compare internet providers and ensure there are no hidden fees or confusing introductory rates.
Safety and security are top priorities here at RTC Networks, and we’re thrilled to have partnered with Watford City’s Wolf Pup Daycare to make a real difference. With new integrated door controls, cameras, and an upgraded phone system, Wolf Pup is now better equipped to keep their little ones safe and connected. Dive into the details on the next page!
We’re also pleased to share some exciting news from our team! Mary Severance, who has been an integral part of RTC Networks as our Accounting Coordinator, has been promoted to Accounting Manager. In her new role, Mary will oversee all of RTC Networks’ financial operations, including compliance, regulations, and reporting, while supervising our Accounting Specialist team. You can learn more about Mary’s promotion on page ten.
As we enter the holiday season, we’re also gearing up for another important time of year—scholarship season! Keep an eye on our Facebook page and website for updates on application deadlines. Last year, we proudly awarded a record-breaking $40,000 in scholarships to 44 local high school seniors. We’re honored to support the bright futures of students in our area.
Thank you for being a valued member of RTC Networks. We remain dedicated to providing you with the best service, transparency, and support in all that we do.
Shane Hart
Shane Hart, CEO/GM
RTC NETWORKS SPOTLIGHT
WOLF PUP DAYCARE PARTNERS WITH
RTC NETWORKS
Wolf Pup Expansion Creates Opportunities for Growth
When the Wolf Pup Daycare board decided to expand services with a new center in Watford City last year, they turned to RTC Networks to improve the security infrastructure in their main building. The new facility with the other Wolf Pup center, according to Wolf Pup operator Tessa Moberg, will now be able to serve over 450 area children with both daycare and preschool classes. The new center will help to address a critical care shortage in Watford City because, notes Moberg: “the community was suffering because no one could find child care that stuck around.” The expansion will also offer the opportunity for Wolf Pup to provide part-time care – something they were unable to do with prior locations.
New Wolf Pup Safety Features
With RTC Network’s expertise and services, the daycare center now includes:
Integrated Door Controls:
RTC Networks integrated the existing secure door control system into the Capture Camera system providing Wolf Pup staff remote access which allows staff to monitor visitors and prevent unauthorized entry. This means that no one who isn’t approved can gain access to the children on site: “If you don’t have a child here or aren’t an approved pick up, you won’t be taking any kids with you. And that to me is huge” says Moberg.
RTC Networks Capture Camera System:
RTC Networks installed a camera system throughout the new facility that can help monitor activities. Moberg raves about the quality and features of their new Capture Camera System, and shares that the other Wolf Pup facility used a camera system from another provider, but the images were so blurred, says Moberg, “you could only tell which kid was which by the color of their shirt.”
myRTCvoice Pro Business Phone System:
RTC Networks installed an updated phone system in the new building which includes intercom speakers throughout the facility, including inside classrooms, the gym, and even outside. The new system allows announcements to be clearer, which, notes Moberg, is an especially valuable feature when a site has multiple classes of young children.
WORKING WITH RTC NETWORKS, A LOCAL COMPANY, IS SO MUCH BETTER AND EASIER THAN DEALING WITH AN OUT-OF-STATE CALL CENTER.
WE ARE HAPPY RTC NETWORKS IS A COOPERATIVE. IT’S ALL LOCAL. IT’S ALL RIGHT HERE, IN WATFORD CITY.
Educational Enhancements
Security was not the only improvement RTC Networks had in mind for Wolf Pup Daycare. The classrooms for the Early Learning Center have also added Smartboard technologies to allow students access to everything from interactive learning exercises to fitness videos. Adaptable technologies allow Wolf Pup to integrate current educational innovations while staying true to its mission of students’ growth through hands-on learning, active play, and social learning opportunities.
Moberg and the Wolf Pup board continue to rely on the expertise of RTC Networks because RTC Networks is part of the community they work to secure, and keeping children safe is something everyone understands is crucially important. Moberg praised the responsiveness of the RTC Networks team and the partnership they’ve created.
RTC NETWORKS TECH TIP
AVOID SOCIAL MEDIA SCAMS
Spotting and Reporting Fake Accounts
Maintaining our connections to family and friends is a great part of social media; we use online platforms to share memories, check out trends, and find entertainment. But there are scammers with fake profiles out there working to harass other users, spread disinformation, sell phony products, and are putting your online security at risk. RTC Networks has some helpful suggestions for avoiding online impersonators and alerting others about fake sites.
Scam Spotting Strategies
There are several recognizable signs to look for when trying to identify an imposter account:
Missing
or mismatched profile pictures.
An imposter account often appears with no picture, a blurry image, or with a picture that doesn’t seem to match the account’s content.
RTC Networks suggests using a tool like Google’s Reverse Image to determine a picture’s authenticity. Simply drop the picture into the image search to check the origin of the picture, which can help you determine the site’s credibility.
Lack of a verification badge.
Many popular social media platforms use blue check marks by names to indicate that the user has been authenticated. These are meant to protect celebrities, brands or other high-profile users from being targeted by copycats, and the lack of that blue mark can help you identify an impersonator site.
Content that is borrowed.
Often fake sites have little to no original material. RTC Networks suggests that when you skim the content of a site, be on the lookout for overuse of stock photos and memes rather than original content. Disinformation sites tend to be extreme in their views, ask for money, and may contain odd slang or informal language.
Discrepancy in a person’s follower count and interactions.
Although a fake account may appear to have thousands of followers, they will have little to no actual engagement with their posts. You can also check if other verified accounts follow or interact with the suspected site; a lack of verified followers may also be an indication of an imposter site.
Avoiding Fake Friend Requests
Another way scammers are reaching out to you is with cloned Facebook accounts. RTC Networks advises you reach out to friends BEFORE accepting that request to confirm that the notice actually came from them. If they haven’t sent another notice, your friend will appreciate knowing that their account has been cloned, and you both can take action.
Reporting Scams
If you believe that you are interacting with a fake social media account, RTC Networks recommends reporting the site as soon as possible. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok have a specific reporting process and forms to expose social media scams; it is not necessary for you to be a subscriber to post an alert.
Staying vigilant about spotting potential fake accounts will better protect you and your entire online community so that you can use your accounts for what they were intended - staying connected.
GET MORE VALUE
With RTC Networks, you get:
Speeds up to 10 Gig for lightning-fast internet
State-of-the-art Wi-Fi 6 equipment included at no extra charge
Unlimited data usage—no throttling, ever
No hidden fees—what you see is what you get
ProtectIQ to block malicious websites, viruses, and intrusions
ExperienceIQ Parental Controls to keep your family safe online myRTCnet app to manage your home network with ease
Learn more at myRTCnetworks.com/wifi/ ONE
Upgrade your Wi-Fi Router for Free!
Replace your outdated Wi-Fi equipment with the RTC GigaSpire at no cost. To schedule an appointment or check if you have the most current equipment, call us today at 701-862-3115!
Shop Local
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Reconsidering the Benefits of Local Shopping in Today’s Digital Age
The phrase “what goes around comes around” goes beyond personal karma; it reaches into the heart of your local economy.
Opting to keep your purchases close to home fosters a cycle of prosperity that ripples through local businesses, nonprofits, and, ultimately, back to you. Here are some reasons to think twice before hitting that online checkout button this holiday season:
Embrace Local Purchases
While the allure of online shopping is undeniable, the charm of discovering products and services in your neighborhood holds its own appeal.
Choosing local means you can bring home your purchases on the same day, sidestep shipping costs, and engage with business owners and employees who offer personalized service and advice.
Job Growth Fuels Local Economies
A flourishing job market results in more residents staying put, ensuring community vitality and diversity. These employed individuals contribute to the local economy, expanding the tax base and fostering the creation of a robust community with improved schools, roads, and parks.
Small Business, Big Heart
Successful local businesses aren’t just economic engines; they are pillars of support for nonprofits. Nonprofit organizations receive double the support from small businesses compared to larger counterparts. By patronizing local enterprises, you are indirectly aiding essential services for groups such as children, veterans, and the elderly.
Local Support, Local Jobs
Your support for nearby businesses isn’t just a transaction; it’s an investment in your community. By choosing local, you contribute to the creation and sustenance of jobs for your neighbors, friends, and relatives. Small businesses constitute over half of all U.S. jobs, but they can only do it if they can keep their doors open. Your decision to spend locally plays a crucial role in making that happen.
Beyond these advantages, choosing local reduces environmental impact, ensures a diverse array of shops and products, and contributes to the overall health and diversity of the community. If you haven’t already embraced the buy local habit, consider making your next purchase from a shop just around the corner. The benefits extend far beyond the transaction–they weave the fabric of a thriving, interconnected community.
RTC NETWORKS PHONE LISTINGS
Alexander - 828
Hensley, Jamie (701) 828-3994
Beach - 872
Boyce, George (701) 872-4319
Maus, Brady & Kirby (701) 872-4426
Oldies 90.5 KWBD-LP (701) 872-2278
Douglas - 529
Renner, Michael & Kelsey (701) 529-4690
East Fairview - 695
Sponheim, Lyle (701) 695-2496
East Fairview - 844
East Fairview School (701) 844-5649
Fairview, MT - (406) 742
Reidle, Loren & Tami (406) 742-5281
Trudell, Robin (406) 742-1022
Fairview, MT - (406) 747
Fairview Alliance Church (406) 747-2517
Garrison - 463
Magandy, G M (701) 463-2359
Keene - 675
Johnson Corner Church (701) 675-2345
Moberg, Jim - 2nd Line (701) 675-2384
Kenmare - 385
Carter, Anna & Eric (701) 385-3563
Makoti- 726
Kasse, Craig & Jenna (701) 726-5979
Mandaree - 759
Halvorson, Florence (701) 759-3963
New Town - 627
Biglake, Bobbie (701) 627-4596
White Owl, Samuel & Destinee (701) 627-3070
Parshall - 862
NG2 Greenhouse (701) 862-4825
Dirt Road Darling (701) 862-3478
Watford City - 444
Bennett, Jesse (701) 444-4830
Watford City - 842
Enis-Napolitan, Heather (701) 842-3229
Wibaux, MT - (406) 795
Barnaby, Gary (406) 795-2322
RTC NETWORKS HAPPENINGS
MARY SEVERANCE PROMOTED TO ACCOUNTING MANAGER
RTC Networks is excited to announce that Mary Severance has been promoted to Accounting Manager. With over 22 years of service, Mary brings a wealth of experience and leadership to her new role, where she will oversee financial operations and lead the Accounting Specialist team.
Shane Hart, CEO/GM, stated, “Her leadership in the accounting department will contribute significantly to RTC Networks’ ongoing financial success.”
Customer Service: 701.862.3115 Repair Service: 800.822.3311 24/7 Help Desk: 800.497.2151
READERS Contest Congratulations to these Summer 2024 Communicator Readers’ Contest winners. They will receive a $20 credit on their RTC Networks bill.
For your chance to be entered in the drawing to win a $20 credit on your bill, correctly answer the questions at the right and include with your RTC Networks bill. You can also submit your answers on our website at myRTCNetworks.com/ readerscontest or email your answers to rtcteam@rtc.email.
Kevin & Lori Brown Beach Exchange
Delmar & Julie Fliginger Garrison Exchange
Chester A Johnson Ross Exchange
Einar Prestangen Watford City Exchange
Bryan & Jean Quigley Norma Exchange
1. What are two services that Wolf Pup Daycare is using for security that RTC Networks offers?
2. Which tip for avoiding social media scams is the most helpful to you?
3. What is one reason to shop local this holiday season?
