As originally posted on Blandin Foundation’s eNews…

As the year winds up, I would like to express my gratitude to the many leaders who are working so hard to improve their community’s access to and use of broadband.  It is great to see the progress that they are making on the many facets of community broadband – all for the purpose of securing a more prosperous future for their area.

Thanks for working to overcome infrastructure and service shortcomings across your regions, your counties, cities and rural townships.  For those putting the final touches on new ARRA funded FTTH and wireless networks, I offer congratulations!  For those who are pursuing better services without the benefits of the stimulus programs, I offer encouragement to continue your efforts in spite of the current lack of legal and financial models.  Let’s spend the new year convening people who are really interested in making things happen and figure out a new model that brings the strengths of all parties to the table.

Thanks to those who are working on the adoption and increasing sophistication side of the broadband model.  We all know that networks without users and value generating applications have limited impact on the economic well-being of our communities.  The success of the MIRC Demo Communities and the MIRC statewide partners shows that by creating models and tools, we can move our institutions, businesses and residents upward on the ladder of tech sophistication.  The result is that our communities are better positioned for today and tomorrow.

Finally, thanks to all whom I have worked with over the past year. Your positive energy and resulting success has made it a fun and exciting initiative of which I am proud to have played a part.  I am looking forward to the new year and continuing to support the work of such great community leaders! Thanks for the opportunity!!