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BEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVESEPTEMBER 2024 ISSUESINCE 1952READY TO ROLL! Bowling Comes to BEK TVPAGE 5BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDECoops Work Tirelessly to Connect Rural CommunitiesPAGE 3DAKOTA TABLE RECIPEBrownies so rich and creamy they are irresistable.PAGE 7888.475.2361bek.coopAs National Cooperative Month approaches in October, we invite you to join us in taking a moment to recognize and celebrate the values that cooperatives, like BEK, embody. At the heart of BEK’s mission is a deep commitment to the communities we serve. Our dedication to community isn’t just about providing services, it’s about fostering connections, supporting local initiatives, and ensuring that the spirit of cooperation thrives in every corner of our service area.The month of October is an opportunity to reflect on what makes cooperative businesses unique in the marketplace, but it’s also a time to rearm our commitment to you, our members, and to the well-being of our communities. At BEK, we believe that a strong community is built on collaboration, where people come together to support one another and work toward shared goals. That’s why BEK actively supports causes and events that uplift our communities, foster educational opportunities, and promote economic development. By investing in the future of our communities, we’re not just building networks, we’re building a better tomorrow for everyone.So, as we approach National Cooperative Month in October, let’s remember the power of cooperation. It’s more than just a business model; it’s a way of life that values people over profit and service over self-interest. At BEK, we’re honored to uphold these values every day, working to make our communities stronger, more resilient, and more connected.Preparing for Cooperative MonthStrengthening Communities Through Cooperation

The BEK Beacon is a bimonthly newsletter published by BEK Communications, © 2024. It is distributed without charge to all customers.BEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVEwas founded in 1952 as a local telecommunications cooperative serving Burleigh, Emmons and Kidder Counties. Since then, we’ve invested in state-of-the-art infrastructure, developed new products and services, and expanded to also serve Morton, Oliver, McLean, Logan, McIntosh, Barnes, Griggs, Cass, and Steele counties. BEK has changed quite a bit in 72 years, but we’re still a small-town cooperative at heart. This institution is an equal opportunity employer.BEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVE 888-475-2361P.O. Box 230 200 East BroadwaySteele, ND 58482220 4th Street NortheastValley City, ND 58072923 East Interstate AvenueBismarck, ND 58503BOARD OF DIRECTORSDISTRICT IShane MorrisReganSanford WilliamsWingDISTRICT IIBob SubartRobinsonPresident Brett StrohTappenDISTRICT IIIVice President Kevin BernhardtLintonHolly WillHazeltonDISTRICT IVSec./Treas. William (Bill) BeckerWishekDISTRICT V EASTEdwin (Ed) EversonHannafordDISTRICT V WESTCharlie DunbarBaldwinSEPT 2024I wanted to take a moment to reflect on what makes BEK Communications Cooperative truly special. For more than 72 years, our cooperative has been guided by principles that emphasize not just our success, but the well-being of the communities we serve. At the core of these principles is the seventh principle of cooperatives: Concern for the Community.This principle isn’t just a box we check; it’s the foundation of everything we do. The Board of Directors (BOD), elected by our members, plays a vital role in setting the course for our cooperative. Their leadership ensures that we remain focused on what truly matters—not just for BEK, but for the communities that rely on us. The BOD’s guidance helps us prioritize the needs of our members, ensuring that our actions are always aligned with the best interests of the communities we serve.Throughout the years, BEK has remained committed to serving rural areas with the services that are often overlooked by larger providers. Whether it was the deployment of phone service in our early days, the introduction of high-speed internet, or the launch of television broadcasting, our mission has always been clear: to provide the services our members need to compete and thrive. In more recent years, our focus on cybersecurity has further highlighted our dedication to protecting rural areas, ensuring they are not left behind in the digital age.Every day, I wake up with a single focus: how can we equip our members with the tools they need to succeed? Because when our members succeed, BEK succeeds. It’s this mutual success that drives us forward and fuels our commitment to serving you, our members.I want to thank each and every one of you for your continued trust and support. BEK is more than just a service provider; we are a community, united by shared values and a commitment to each other. Together, we are building a brighter future for all.Message from the CEOLeading with PurposeDERRICKBULAWAEvery day, I wake up with a single focus: how can we equip our members with the tools they need to succeed?

North Dakota is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, oering a wide range of activities that attract adventurers from across the nation. Whether you’re into hunting, fishing, hiking, or birdwatching, the state’s diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your favorite outdoor pursuits. To keep up with everything happening in the great outdoors, don’t miss “North Dakota Game and Fish Weekly” each Sunday evening at 6:30 p.m. on BEK TV.Hosted by Mike Anderson of the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, this half-hour program features people who have dedicated their lives to the outdoors. Each episode dives into topics ranging from fishing and hunting to boating and conservation, providing valuable insights and tips for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Whether you’re a seasoned sportsman or just getting started, “North Dakota Game and Fish Weekly” is a must-watch.Tune in every Sunday at 6:30 p.m. to stay informed and inspired by the latest in North Dakota’s outdoor scene, only on BEK TV.BEK Communications is leading the charge to connect North Dakota’s most rural and underserved areas as a Smart Rural Community partner with the NTCA – The Rural Broadband Association. Unlike large cable companies focused on chasing federal dollars, BEK is dedicated to building the networks that rural communities truly need.Through its partnership with NTCA, BEK is working to bridge the digital divide, providing high-speed internet and advanced telecommunications services to even the most remote areas. This collaboration goes beyond technology, focusing on enriching the communities where people live, work, and play.BEK’s commitment to North Dakota’s rural areas ensures that businesses can grow, students can learn, and families can stay connected, no matter where they are. BEK is building a future where every North Dakotan has the opportunity to thrive.Explore North DakotaA Haven for Outdoor EnthusiastsBEK Connects North Dakota’s Rural Communities Through Smart PartnershipsE-Rate Discount ProgramThe E-Rate Program helps ensure aordable high-speed internet access for schools and libraries. To get started, first find out if you qualify for discounted internet service. Go to https://www.usac.org/e-rate/get-started/ and see if you qualify for the program definition of a school or library. If you are unsure of your status, you may need to contact a local administrative agency such as the State Department of Education. Additionally, the USAC website leads you through the process of selecting service providers, applying for discounts, and starting services. For support, call the E-Rate Customer Service Center (CSC) at (888)203-8100 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET.

This is a friendly reminder that the deadlines for both the Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) and Community Partnership Program (CPP) grants are due this month.Due September 27 - Community Partnership ProgramBEK created the Community Partnership Program grant to help local projects and organizations within the cooperative’s service area. The program is designed to meet the needs of the communities today and prepare for what they may need in the future.Due September 30 - RDFCThe Rural Development Finance Corporation provides financial support to community-owned entities and non-profit projects within the BEK network.To learn more about each grant opportunity and to apply, visit https://www.bek.coop/coop/grantsReminderGrant Application Deadlines ApproachingCommon Carrier NoticeThe Public Service commission of North Dakota designated BEK Communications Cooperative the “Eligible Telecommunications Carrier” for its service area for universal service purposes. The goal of universal service is to provide all citizens access to essential telecommunications services.BEK Communications provides the supported telephone service throughout its designated service area at rates which start at $18.95 per month for residential customers and $27.95 per month for business line customers. This supported service includes:• Voice grade access to the public switched network or its functional equivalent.• Minutes of use for local service provided at no additional charge.• Access to emergency services provided by local government or other public safety organizations, such as 911 and enhanced 911, to the extent the local government in BEK Communication’s Cooperative service area(s) has implemented 911 or enhanced 911 systems.• Toll limitation for qualifying low-income consumers (toll blocking).BEK Communications would be pleased to provide you with specific rates for your area upon request. Call 1-888-475-2361.BEK Communications oers qualified customers Lifeline Service. If you are a low-income customer, you may qualify for the Lifeline Program. This means you may receive a monthly discount for your basic phone or internet charges. This service also includes free toll blocking for qualifying customers.

For the Strike!Experience the Thrill of Bowling on BEK TVAn exciting new chapter in sports entertainment has come to BEK TV with professional and amateur bowling! Partnering with JMar Entertainment, BEK TV has launched comprehensive coverage of bowling tournaments from across the nation, showcasing both top-tier professionals and dedicated small-market bowlers.Watch on Sundays on BEK TV:5:30 pm CT Frame X Frame6:00 pm CT Headliner Bowling SeriesThe “Headliners Bowling Series” travels to dierent bowling centers, covering the exciting step ladder portion of tournaments. Just before each episode of the “Headliners Bowling Series,” viewers can tune in to “Frame by Frame,” a half-hour program that features interviews with professional bowlers, oers tips and tricks to improve your game, provides tournament coverage, and much more.The next bowling event, “Scratch Singles Bowling Tournament,” is scheduled for October 6th in Huron, SD, followed by the “Bowling for Zander Scholarship Tournament” on October 20 in Del Rapids, SD. To catch all the action, watch live on BEK TV or by streaming on the BEK TV+ app. (A BEK TV Channel Guide can be found by visiting https://www.bek.tv/channel-finder). By subscribing to BEK TV+, you’re able to watch both live and on demand when you want to. The app also allows you to fast-forward, rewind, or pause the coverage. A portion of each subscription supports youth bowling initiatives and scholarships, helping to invest in the future of the sport.Get ready to roll with BEK TV as bowling takes center stage in this exciting new venture!PRESENTED BYSUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Biesterfeld, Jack & Carmen 734-6497 BaldwinConnie’s Canine Cuts 845-905 Valley CityFritz, Jerome 490-3563 Valley CityIszler, Sherri 327-4218 TappenMasset, Emily 387-4888 MotPrecision Insurance 475-2113 SteeleSayler, Herman 452-2756 WishekSparkle City 452-2887 WishekNEW PHONE LISTINGSNAME PHONE CITY Lifeline AssistanceLifeline is a federal program that oers a discount to qualified customers on their monthly telephone or internet service. Home Telephone or Broadband AssistanceLifeline will provide a discount up to $9.25 on your monthly bill for broadband service, or a discount up to $5.25 on your monthly bill for telephone service. This program is available to all BEK Communications Cooperative exchanges (excludes: rural Bismarck, rural Morton/Oliver County and Valley City area exchanges).Do you qualify for Lifeline assistance?To be eligible for Lifeline, you must be enrolled in a qualifying program. Qualifying programs include: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA), Veterans Pension or Survivors Benefit or if your income is 135% or less than the federal poverty guidelines.Apply OnlineYou can apply online by going to LifelineSupport.org and creating an account. Once you have filled out the information, you will find out if you qualify for Lifeline assistance.You will need the following information to apply online: Full legal name Date of birth Last 4 digits of your SSN AddressIf you receive an error message, please contact the National Lifeline program at 1-800-234-9473 for additional help.Apply by MailYou can also send an application by mail. You will mail in your completed Lifeline Application (English or Spanish) Household Worksheet, and copies of your proof of eligibility to the Lifeline Support Center. USAC will contact you by mail to let you know if you qualify for Lifeline Assistance. Mailing address is: USAC Lifeline Support Center PO Box 9100 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18773The Lifeline program is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC).USAC is responsible for data collection and maintenance, support calculation, and disbursement for the program. Once on the Lifeline program, you will be contacted by USAC annually to re-certify. If you no longer meet the eligibility guidelines above, you will no longer qualify for Lifeline and must inform BEK of your ineligibility by calling 701-475-2361 or toll free at 1-888-475-2361.SCAN QRTO SEE WHERETO WATCH!

Double Fudge Cream Cheese Brownies SUBMITTED BY: LORRAINE RAU FROM NAPOLEON, NDINGREDIENTS:Brownie Batter1 ½ c. butter5 squares unsweetened baking chocolate3 c. sugar1 ½ tsp. baking powder2 ¼ c. flour6 eggs2 tsp. vanillaCream Cheese Filling8 oz. cream cheese½ c. sugar2 eggs2 tbsp. flour1 tsp. vanilla1 c. semi-sweet chocolate chipsDIRECTIONS:1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Begin the brownie batter by melting the chocolate and butter. Allow to cool.2. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, flour, and vanilla until combined. 3. Once the chocolate and butter mixture for the brownie batter are cool, stir in the sugar, baking powder, flour, eggs, and vanilla. 4. Spread half of the brownie batter into an 11” x 17” pan. Next, pour all the cream cheese batter on top of the brownie batter.5. With a spoon, drop the remaining brownie batter in sections on top of the cream cheese batter.6. Sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the layers.7. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick or by touching lightly.

BEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVE200 East Broadway, PO Box 230, Steele, ND 58482ECRWSS LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER1What new BEK TV bowling program airs on Sundays at 5:30 pm?2True or False: Larger cable companies are connecting more rural communities.3TRIVIA ENTRYENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY OCTOBER 18, 2024Name: ______________________________________________________________________Phone Number: ___________________________________________________________Town: _______________________________________________________________________Clip and send to BEK at:PO Box 230, Steele, ND 58482 You also can email answers to bekcomm@bektel.coop We will be drawing for twenty $5.00 credits to be applied to the winners’ bill.CONGRATS! TO OUR BEACON JULY WINNERSBEACON TRIVIAAl Dosch | StrasburgAlbert Noel | LintonBernie Marquart | NapoleonDotty Gray | BismarckDiane Ketterling | WishekDebra Harrison | NapoleonFonda Wolbaum | BraddockJacinta Engelhardt | BismarckJane Schneider | NapoleonJohn Johnson | WiltonKathy Biegler | SterlingLaRae Madsen | EmbdenLaura Hulm | LintonLou Schuler | BaldwinMarcella Krein | BismarckPaula Fettig | NapoleonTom Ostrowski | AyrTyler Jacob | LintonTillie Holzer | LintonVickie Jackson | Valley CityWhat is the 7th principle of a cooperative?