CTCIT Changes Name to Xtona

The name change does not impact CTC the broadband, phone and TV coop, it only reflects a change to our IT business division (CTCIT). Technology solutions for businesses continue to increase in complexity and demand as remote worker requirements, cyber security attacks, and proactive network support becomes more critical. Due to this increased demand for services and quickly-evolving technology, CTCIT has expanded its services and changed its name to Xtona.

“We’re excited to offer a more expansive suite of IT and network services to our local businesses. As we continue to grow, we felt this was the perfect time to rebrand our business IT services,” said Kristi Westbrock, CTC’s CEO/General Manager. “Regardless of the change, our customers will continue to experience the same exemplary level of service as they have today,” she continued.

Some of their services include cyber security, business compliance, firewall and network support and monitoring, asset management, policy development, email filtering, continuity management, and back up disaster recovery.

“CTC and Xtona offer the best of both worlds for business communication. With CTC’s fiber network, you can get fast reliable internet while Xtona partners with you to help with any of your IT needs,” said Kelvin Daniels, Xtona’s Director of Sales and Channels. “It’s an ever-changing industry and we look forward to working with businesses of all sizes and industries.”


Fore more information contact:

Andy Isackson, Director of Member Operations
218-454-1205, andy@goctc.com

Xtona is a managed services provider (MSP) that specializes in small to medium sized businesses and multi-location entities. Xtona responds to each business’s unique technology infrastructure with a systematic and comprehensive approach. Their planning includes flexible management and quick response to all business needs. For more information, visit www.xtona.com.

CTC to Expand Fiber Footprint in Northeast Minnesota

Hibbing, MN – Consolidated Telephone Company (CTC) recently secured a state-of-the-art, all-fiber network spanning nearly 610 miles in northeast Minnesota, allowing them to provide high-speed, reliable internet services to businesses and residents throughout the area.

A newly established, long-term partnership agreement with the Northeast Service Cooperative (NESC) allowed for the growth. The network represents 3,160 route miles of fiber: a 20% increase in CTC’s service area. Most importantly, the move will boost the economic capacity of the region, more readily allowing for business growth and workforce development.

“Not only does this tie in with our strategic plan but it will spur business innovation and lead to more job opportunities,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO/General Manager at CTC. “Plus, it will allow us to have a deeper connection with local cities and townships and more easily secure state and federal funding to get internet to those who need it most.”

“CTC has a proven track record serving Northern Minnesota with reliable telecommunications services and innovative business solutions”, said Paul Brinkman, Executive Director at NESC. “We are delighted to enter into a long-term partnership with CTC to expand high-capacity broadband access and job-creating business development in St. Louis and Carlton Counties.”

The fiber network spans the cities of Cloquet, Hibbing, Chisholm, Mountain Iron, Virginia, Eveleth, Gilbert, Biwabik, Tower, Ely, Aurora, and the surrounding areas and will provide broadband internet of up to 10 Gigabits. For more information and a map of the area visit www.goctc.com/NESC.


For more information contact:

Joe Buttweiler, Director of Business Development
218-454-1275, joe@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full-service telecommunications company based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.

Westbrock Appointed to FCC Working Group

BRAINERD, MN – Kristi Westbrock, CEO/General Manager at Consolidated Telephone Company (CTC), was recently appointed by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to serve on the FCC’s Telecommunications Interagency Working Group.

The 12-person group was formed as a result of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, to develop recommendations that address the workforce needs of the telecommunications industry. Members of the group represent a variety of government and private entities. They will be charged with preparing a report that includes recommendations to address the workforce needs and safety within the telecommunications industry.

“It’s a true honor to be selected to serve on this working group,” said Kristi Westbrock, CTC’s CEO/General Manager. “I look forward to sharing my experiences around workforce safety and recruitment and collectively improve our industry’s future.”

The appointment is a one-year commitment, effective January 14, 2022. Westbrock was selected to serve, based on a nomination that was submitted by Kathy Kobliska, Chairman of the CTC Board of Directors. For more information about the appointment visit: https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-announces-telecommunications-interagency-working-group-0.


For more information contact:

Kristi Westbrock, CEO/General manager
218-454-1105, kristi@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full-service telecommunications company based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.

CTC Receives DEED Award to Expand Broadband Internet

Brainerd, MN – Last week the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) announced that they have awarded over $20 million through their Border-to-Border Broadband Development Grant program. The 39 projects that were awarded throughout the state will be matched by nearly $34 million in local funds, for a total investment of $54.3 million.

The funding, which was approved during the 2019 legislative sessions, goes to broadband providers to build out wireline broadband infrastructure to unserved and underserved locations across the state. This round of funding will provide internet access to over 6,900 businesses, homes, and community institutions.

Consolidated Telecommunications Company (CTC) was one of the grant recipients, receiving $350,805 in funding. This will be combined with $350,805 in matching funds from CTC. When successfully completed, 180 unserved homes and businesses in Ross Lake Township in Crow Wing County will have access to internet with speeds of up to 1Gig.

“It’s an honor to receive this award as it helps to further our mission of connecting more communities,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO and General Manager at CTC. “We’re confident that better internet services will enhance the lives of everyone that lives, works, and vacations in this area.”

Once complete, the project will allow rural residents to work from home, safely stay in their homes longer, and increase communication options for area businesses and residents… all while boosting economic development to the area. Broadband will bring enhanced employment opportunities and educational experiences to the thousands of rural residents that call this area home.

Created in 2014, the Border-to-Border Broadband Development Grant Program provides state resources that help make the financial case for new and existing providers to invest in building broadband infrastructure into unserved and underserved areas of the state. Grants were awarded through a competitive application process. More information about the program is available at https://mn.gov/deed/programs-services/broadband/grant-program/.


For more information contact:

Joe Buttweiler, Director of Business Development
218-454-1275, joe@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full-service telecommunications cooperative based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.

Greg Springer Promoted to CFO at CTC

Greg Springer has been named the Chief Financial Officer at Consolidated Telecommunications Company (CTC).

Springer brings over 20 years of experience to the position, most recently as Director of Finance at CTC. Prior to starting with the cooperative in 2008, he spent six years with Midwest Telephone Company in Parkers Prairie and two years with Unicel. Springer will be responsible for overseeing all accounting functions including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and supervision of the Finance team.

“I look forward to working with Greg in his new position,” said Kristi Westbrock, CTC’s CEO/General Manager. “I would also like to extend my deepest and sincerest thanks to Mark Roach as he transitions into retirement in early March. We are very fortunate to have such a robust finance team at CTC.”

Springer graduated from Bemidji State University with a B.S. in Accounting. He is currently the treasurer for Smiles for Jake, a local nonprofit organization, and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Brainerd. Springer has been active in coaching youth sports and is also a youth sports official.


For more information contact:

Kristi Westbrock, CEO/General Manager
218-454-1105, kristi@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full-service telecommunications company based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.

Pillager School Partners with CTC for New Auditorium

Brainerd, MN – In May 2019, community members within the Pillager School District voted in support of a referendum that included maintenance and remodeling projects to school facilities as well as the construction of a new auditorium.

Due to a new partnership with CTC, the Pillager School District is pleased to announce that the new auditorium, which will include a state-of-the-art performing arts center, will be named the CTC Center.

“Pillager Public School is excited to partner with CTC to provide and expand opportunities for students and our community,” said Mike Malmberg, Superintendent of ISD #116. “Joining forces will add excitement to the vision that the District has for the new “CTC Center”. As an auditorium, we can look to host expanded events for our community and residents to enjoy and appreciate.”

The school district doesn’t currently have an auditorium. Instead there’s a small 80-year old stage in the elementary cafeteria. The new auditorium will serve as a multi-functional community facility and will include tiered 350-seat theater seating, quality sound and lighting, ground-level entrance, and large, flexible space for a variety of meetings, events, and activities.

“This is such an exciting opportunity for CTC to give back to one of the communities we serve,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO/General Manager at CTC. “We love the vision the school district has for the addition and we’re pleased to be a part of it.”

The site for the auditorium is currently being prepared for construction. ISD #116 and CTC are planning a groundbreaking event in the coming months.


For more information contact:

Andy Isackson, Director of Member Relations
218-454-1205, andy@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full-service telecommunications cooperative based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.

$15,000 Donation to BLACF Supports Food Insecurities

The current crisis caused by COVID-19 has forced many public events and large gatherings to be canceled, postponed, or reformatted. CTC’s annual meeting is no exception.

The event, open to any CTC customer, is typically held at the Crow Wing County Fairgrounds in June, where it has 500+ members in attendance. At their May 2020 board meeting, CTC’s Board of Directors agreed to hold the event virtually (online) via videoconference instead of in-person.

The Board of Directors also decided to donate $15,000 to the Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation (BLACF) to support families and community members who are struggling to put food on their table during these uncertain times. This represents the money that would have been spent on the door prizes and meals served at CTC’s annual meeting. The donation will be used to support food insecurities through BLACF’s Response Fund.

An initial grant from the Response Fund has already been awarded to the Outreach Program of Brainerd Lakes, formerly Kids Against Hunger so that they can provide meals to local food shelves in CTC’s service area right away.

“We are delighted CTC has joined us in addressing the impact of COVID-19 on our neighbors, especially as it relates to hunger,” said Karl Samp, Executive Director at BLACF. “One of our roles is to connect resources and connect CTC’s gift with The Outreach Program’s meal
initiative is an honor for us at the Foundation as it will provide up to 45,000 meals.”

To reach its full potential, CTC is challenging other businesses and community members to show their support in the form of matching funds with the goal of providing an additional $15,000 to the Response Fund. In fact, the Roelofs Family Fund (managed by BLACF) has agreed to be the first matching donor.

“We know that many families and businesses are struggling right now,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO/General Manager at CTC. “If you’re able, we encourage you to donate. Your generosity will directly impact your community and neighbors by providing a basic human need… food!”

Individuals and organizations that are interested in donating to the matching challenge or are in need of funding assistance should visit CommunityGiving.org/COVID-19, and select the BLA Response Fund, or contact ksamp@communitygiving.org.


For more information contact:

Andy Isackson, CTC Director of Member Relations
218-454-1205, andy@goctc.com

Karl Samp, Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation (BLACF) Executive Director
218-454-5633, ksamp@communitygiving.org

BLACF attracts and administers charitable funds for the benefit of the Brainerd Lakes Area. Since 1998, BLACF has grown to over $15 million in assets and awarded over $5.6 million in grants to nonprofits. To learn more visit www.communitygiving.org.

CTC is a technology advisor and full-service telecommunications cooperative based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. For more information visit www.goctc.com.

CTC Offers Public WiFi Spots Throughout the Area

Brainerd, MN – In an effort to provide critical internet services for those who may have little or no access, CTC has opened several public WiFi spots throughout the area. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the temporary closing of schools, gathering spaces, restaurants, and other public buildings, the demand for internet has increased as more people are telecommuting, engaging in distance learning, and staying at home.

To find the nearest public WiFi location, visit CTC’s Google map at https://tinyurl.com/ufnsac8. The map will be updated in real time as more locations are activated and added in the coming days. There will be no need to leave your vehicle or enter any nearby buildings in order to access the WiFi. Simply park in the area and search for a network named “CTC WiFi”. It will be free to use and will allow anyone to access high-speed, reliable internet from a safe location.

Area law enforcement have been notified that there may be more traffic and parked vehicles in these areas. Area school district officials have also been contacted so that families and students are aware of these services.

For current CTC members, CTC is also offering free internet speed upgrades for two months. Customers are encouraged to call and request this service change.

CTC has closed their Brainerd, Baxter, and Crosby offices to walk-in visitors. However, the CTC customer service team is available 24/7 via phone, email, or online support. Customers can also drop off payments at all locations and drop off equipment outside the Baxter office.

A link to the Google map, along with other pertinent COVID information for CTC’s operations can be found on their website at www.goctc.com/covid.

CTC is also encouraging everyone to be aware of suspicious emails, phone calls, or persons impersonating business employees or charitable organizations. Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of opportunities such as this, when households are otherwise preoccupied. If you get a call or email from someone claiming to represent CTC, please hang up or delete the email and contact CTC at 218-454-1234 or support@goctc.com.


For more information contact:

Andy Isackson, Director of Member Operations
218-454-1205, andy@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full service telecommunications cooperative based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.

CTC Receives USDA Award to Expand Broadband Internet

Brainerd, MN – Today, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Stephen Censky announced that USDA has invested $11 million in three, high-speed broadband infrastructure projects that will create or improve rural e-Connectivity for more than 1,395 rural households and nearly 120 businesses throughout several counties in Minnesota and northern Iowa. This is one of many funding announcements in the first round of USDA’s ReConnect Pilot Program investments.

CTC was awarded a $5.2 million ReConnect Program grant to construct a fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) network of up to one gigabit of symmetrical high-speed internet to nearly 700 homes and public facilities in portions of Cherry and Great Scott townships in northeastern Minnesota’s Iron Range area.

CTC will leverage existing middle-mile infrastructure, in partnership with Northeast Service Cooperative (NESC), and require only an additional 157.1 miles of new FTTP construction. The funded service area includes 667 households, two educational facilities and two critical community facilities in St. Louis County. CTC will invest $1,743,169 in the project; a 25% match.

“We’re thrilled to receive this award,” said Kristi Westbrock, CEO and General Manager at CTC. “Residents and business owners in the Cherry Township area have made it very clear that they need high-speed internet in order to thrive. We look forward to partnering with NESC and to serving this area for years to come.”

As part of this round of funding, Harmony Telephone Company was also awarded a $2.7 million ReConnect Program loan and a $2.7 million ReConnect Program grant, while Osage Municipal Utilities in northern Iowa was awarded a $397,749 ReConnect Program grant.

“When Americans are connected to high-speed internet, productivity and prosperity skyrocket,” Censky said. “This task of providing rural Americans with broadband is of the
highest importance for President Trump and his Administration. We cannot leave millions of Americans out of the successes of this booming economy simply because they do not have access to the internet.”

In March 2018, Congress provided $600 million to USDA to expand broadband infrastructure and services in rural America. On Dec. 13, 2018, Secretary Perdue announced the rules of the program, called “ReConnect,” including how the loans and grants will be awarded to help build broadband infrastructure in rural America. USDA received 146 applications between May 31, 2019, and July 12, 2019, requesting $1.4 billion in funding across all three ReConnect Program funding products: 100 percent loan, 100 percent grant, and loan-grant combinations. USDA is reviewing applications and announcing approved projects on a rolling basis. Additional investments in all three categories will be made in the coming weeks.

More information about the ReConnect Pilot Program is available at www.usda.gov/reconnect.


For more information contact:

Joe Buttweiler, Director of Business Development
218-454-1275, joe@goctc.com

CTC is a technology advisor and full service telecommunications company based in Brainerd, MN. Formed in 1952, CTC has grown into a complete communications provider offering telephone, high-speed internet, digital television, and IT services to businesses and individuals throughout central and northern Minnesota. More information about CTC can be found at www.goctc.com.