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BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP 1As the Fall sports season gets into full swing, there’s one thing that remains unchanged – nobody does high school and collegiate sports coverage better than BEK TV! From the athletes on the field to the spectators in the stands, BEK TV encapsulates the thrill and energy of each game.This year, sports enthusiasts, parents, and grandparents can enjoy all the action like never before. BEK TV recently acquired a new television station, expanding its reach to even more viewers. KNGF now brings live sports coverage to a broader audience on the Eastern side of the state and Western Minnesota, ensuring everyone enjoys the thrill of the game. As the sole North Dakota-owned station providing complete statewide coverage, BEK TV continues to grow its market. Recently, BEK TV re-branded BEK Sports Plus as BEK Sports 2 and BEK Sports 3, expanding its scope of North Dakota sports. BEK TV’s four broadcast channels are available statewide on KNDB, KNDM, and KNGF broadcast stations and locally, thanks to rural cable providers throughout North Dakota. Additionally, BEK TV’s main channel, “BEK TV,” is available on Dish and DirecTV satellite and Midco and Sparklight cable providers.Beyond traditional TV broadcasting, BEK TV is excited to announce the release of a new app allowing users to enjoy live and on-demand sports, news and opinion shows. The BEK TV+ app is available FREE in your favorite app store. Enjoy live and on-demand BEK TV anywhere on your mobile device or streaming to your TV. BEK TV continues to bring high school, collegiate, and professional sports to fans everywhere. So, grab your favorite team’s gear, tune in, and get ready to cheer! BEK TV, has you covered!BEK TV Dominates Fall Sports Season with Unmatched CoverageBEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVE SEPT 2023EXPANDING CONNECTIONSBEK announces its new territory and welcomes new members.PAGE 2DIGITAL EMPOWERMENTA new app oers personalized alerts and easy payments.PAGE 8DAKOTA TABLEBUSTER BAR DESSERT A beat the heat, summer treat in this month’s Dakota Table recipe.PAGE 7888.475.2361bek.coop

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP2DERRICK BULAWA Chief Executive Ocer BEK Broadens Cooperative Membership AreaNew members sought to serve on Nomination CommitteeFROM THE CEOBEK Communications has been serving the people of North Dakota for 71 years and counting. Since BEK’s inception, it has continually advanced its mission of providing communications services to rural North Dakotans by broadening its cooperative service territory to better serve those in need and to bring the benefits of BEK membership to more North Dakotans. I am delighted to announce that the BEK Communications Cooperative Board of Directors has approved a new broadened area of our cooperative service territory! The new territory, which will be referred to as District 5, ocially will be integrated into the cooperative on January 1, 2024. District 5 will consist of two regions: District 5-East will include the region of Valley City and neighboring areas, and District 5-West will cover Bismarck, Mandan, and its immediate surrounding areas. We look forward to welcoming new members and directors to our cooperative and working together to make a positive impact on our community.With that said, we have begun the search for two qualified individuals to serve on the Nomination Committee, one for District 5-East and one for District 5-West. The committee is an important part of our governance structure and plays a vital role in representing the interests of our members. The Nomination Committee will be responsible for nominating candidates for the open director’s position for District 5-East and the open director’s position for District 5-West, two directors in total for the new District 5, who will be elected at our next Annual Meeting in June.To be eligible for the Nomination Committee, you must reside within the District 5 service area. Also, you must be a subscriber of BEK Broadband and/or Phone service for the last two years or have a current two-year agreement. Ideal Nominating Committee members will have a background in leadership or management or entrepreneurial endeavors.If you are interested in becoming a part of the Nomination Committee, please reach out to Brenda Waletzko at brendaw@bektel.coop or via phone at 701-475-1247 by Friday, September 22. In the meantime, we are excited about the opportunities that this will bring to our cooperative and the communities we serve.5 EASTOne (1) Director Position OpenTwo (2) Year Term2Brett StrohBob Subart1Shane MorrisSanford Williams3Kevin BernhardtHolly Will4Bill Becker5 DISTRICT PLAN 2024District 5, Has Two (2) Director Positions OpenAugust 20235 WESTOne (1) Director Position OpenThree (3) Year Term

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP 3The BEK Beacon is a bimonthly newsletter published by BEK Communications, © 2023. 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 71 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 IVSecretary/Treasurer William (Bill) BeckerWishekGerald BurlackWishekSEPT 2023New Estate Retirement Options Aim to Balance Capital Credits BEK Grant Deadlines ApproachingAs a BEK Communications member, you have a share in the cooperative’s ownership through capital credits, which are based on your yearly patronage. However, the growth in funds necessary for retiring estate capital credits has exceeded the capital needed for general retirements. To address this, the Board of Directors has introduced two new estate retirement options:1. Face Value allows the transfer of capital credits to another person upon a member’s death, providing maximum value during the general retirement cycle.2. Present Value oers an immediate lump sum cash payment, calculated based on the maturity of the capital credits, cost of capital, and the cooperative’s capital needs.In business closures, capital credits only can be transferred to other members. With these changes, the board expects to establish a more balanced capital credit retirement process for both current and past members and to return to a more consistent general retirement practice within the next couple years.Time is running out to apply for two grant opportunities:1. Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) Grant Deadline: October 31, 2023 RDFC has approved an allotment of $3,000 for BEK to support community owned entities, non-profits, and community-based projects. For more information, visit bek.coop/coop/rdfc-online-app.2. BEK Community Partnership Grant | Deadline: September 29, 2023 Eligible applicants include:• Community-owned businesses• Community facilities• Community-based or nonprofit projectsTo qualify, you must:• Be a tax-exempt organization• Be a nonprofit group• Be located in the BEK service area or access BEK services through BEK FiberSubmit your application online at bek.coop/coop/cpp.

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP4Unity in Community: October Recognizes CooperativesNational Cooperative Month holds a significant place in celebrating the contributions and impact of cooperatives across the world. Therefore, October serves as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of BEK Communications Cooperative and to promote its values and emphasize its importance in building stronger, more resilient communities.Cooperatives recognize National Coop Month for several reasons:Awareness and EducationIt’s a great opportunity to educate the public about the cooperative model, its benefits, and its dierences from other business models. It raises awareness about the unique value proposition that cooperatives oer.Member EngagementIt’s a time to engage and connect with their members. It reinforces the principle of member ownership and governance, and it can encourage active participation in cooperative decision-making.Community ImpactCooperatives often have a strong community focus, and celebrating this month helps to highlight their contributions to local communities. This could include job creation, local investment, and support for social initiatives.Solidarity and CollaborationIt promotes solidarity and collaboration among cooperatives, fostering a sense of unity within the cooperative movement. This can lead to shared resources, ideas, and expertise that can benefit cooperatives as a whole.NEW PHONE LISTINGSNAME PHONE CITY Updates to Bylaws Now Available OnlineAt this year’s Annual Meeting held on June 8, proposed amendments to the cooperative bylaws were passed. Those updated bylaws can be found online at bek.coop/coop/about.4 Seasons Floral 452-4545 WishekAces Tavern 734-9394 WiltonBrown, Paul 222-8602 BismarckD&B Engraving and Tees, LLC 452-4545 WishekDiede, Randy & Deb 258-8918 BismarckEmmons County Insurance Agency 254-4045 LintonFeist Funeral Home 452-2353 WishekFeist Funeral Home 754-2620 NapoleonFettig, Rose 336-2460 StrasburgFisher, Brad 877-1166 MandanGross, Donnie 754-2604 NapoleonHancock, Travis 754-4129 NapoleonHellman, James & Helen 258-6400 MandanMoes Guns-N-More 423-5307 ZeelandNelson, Thomas & Victoria 475-4402 SteeleNeuberger, Keith 490-3451 Valley CityNodak Meats LLC 475-4758 SteeleRyckman, Travis 336-7724 PollockSchmidt, James M 673-3179 MenokenSerr, Edna 254-4018 LintonSerr, Shelley 254-4018 LintonStoltz, Shawn 673-3335 MenokenValley Plains Equipment 754-2256 Napoleon

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP 5The deadline to submit photos for the BEK 2023 Community Calendar is September 15. If you have a photo that you’re proud of, consider submitting it for possible inclusion. The photos should depict nature, agriculture, farming culture, or anything representative of North Dakota.Photo Entry RequirementsPhotos must be:• In color• In high resolution• Taken in North Dakota• Taken by someone who receives at least one BEK service: internet, phone, security, or EPIC IPTV.Please limit the number of photos you submit to 10. When submitting, don’t forget to include your full name and the city you live in.To Submit a PhotoEmail photo entries to: marketing@bektel.coop Subject Line: Photo Contest 2023 Submission Deadline: September 15, 2023*Please Note: When emailing photos, please attach them to the email. If you have photos in cloud storage, download the individual photos and send as an attachment in an email.Calendar Contest Deadline for SubmissionsCalling all Amateur Photographers!Annual Cable Service Notice Pursuant to FCC Cable Rule CFR 76.1602This Annual Cable Service Notice (“Notice”) provides specific information regarding Skitter’s cable service. The disclosures in this Notice do not modify any BEK Communications Service Agreement provisions.Products and Services Oered Skitter makes a variety of video programming services (individually “Service” and collectively “Services”) available via the EPIC Video Technologies platform (EPIC IPTV). The number of packages and channels in the packages may change from time to time, depending on market and content licensing requirements. Prices and Options OeredThe packages include a variety of local “over-the-air” broadcast TV stations and may include public, educational, and government access channels. Some packages contain a wide variety of general entertainment, news, and sports programming. Optional premium channels such as movies and out-of-market sports are also available.For a monthly fee, subscribers of any level of Service may subscribe to Skitter’s digital video recorder (“Cloud DVR”) Service, which allows you to record your favorite shows.The BEK Streaming Device (BSD) and remote control are available for lease. Other compatible streaming devices, including Smart TVs, are available at retail stores for purchase. Visit bek.coop for a complete list, compatible with the EPIC Video Technologies platform. Installation and Service Maintenance PoliciesAn adult 18 years or older must be present during any installation or repair of service. BSD or customer-owned equipment installation may require a service call subject to an additional fee. Our team will make every reasonable eort to reschedule a missed service appointment at a time convenient for you.Continues on page 6...

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP6Access to Customer Premise By ordering service, you agree to allow BEK employees and/or subcontractors access to your premises to inspect and maintain the equipment and, upon the termination of service, remove the equipment. Failure by BEK Communications to remove equipment does not deem it abandoned. How to Use Your ServicesAt the installation time, a BEK service technician will provide instructions on how to use EPIC IPTV service. You can find further instructions in the EPIC User Guide or on our website at bek.coop.Channels and Programming Options At the time of sale, scheduling, and again at installation, you will receive pricing and oered a list of our channel line-ups. Additional pricing is also available on our website. Changes in Service or Prices If any change in services or pricing is planned, notification is provided no less than 30 days before the change. Notice may be provided on a customer’s monthly bill, as a bill insert, as a newspaper legal notice, by separate mailing, online at www.bek.coop, or some other written form. Billing and Miscellaneous Fees Your monthly BEK Communications invoice provides your account’s charges, due date, payment due, and applicable credits. It also contains monthly “bill messages” to update and educate. Accounts that remain unpaid after BEK’s payment due date (twentieth (20) day of each month) are assessed a $30 late fee. If payment is returned as “insucient funds,” a $35 NSF Fee will be assessed. Delinquent Accounts/Reconnection of Service Nonpayment of part or all of your bill may interrupt or disconnect all BEK Communications provided BEK COMMUNICATIONS services. If service is disconnected for nonpayment and you wish to reconnect service, BEK requires the total outstanding balance to be paid in full plus an additional $45 Reconnect Fee. Cancellation or Termination of ServiceA request to disconnect service can be made at any time. If disconnection occurs in a service term agreement, the customer will be assessed an early termination fee, and the return of promotional credits and/or equipment may be requested. Billing will stop when the request is made, subject to applicable fees and outstanding balances on services. Equipment provided or leased must be returned upon disconnecting, or appropriate charges will be applied. Complaint Procedures Billing or service complaints should be directed to BEK Communications at 888-475-2361 or by email at bekcomm@bektel.com. If you believe BEK Communications has not adequately resolved your issue, you may contact your local franchise authority (listed to the right) or the FCC. Assistance from BEKFor any questions regarding your Service and/or technical assistance, please call us at 888-475-2361 or visit bek.coop. Filing a complaint with the FCC File a complaint online at consumercomplaints.fcc.gov. By phone: 1-888-225-5322 or TTY 1-888-835-5322. By mail (must include your name, address, contact information, and details of your complaint) Federal Communications Commission Consumer and Governmental Aairs Bureau Consumer Inquiries and Complaints Division 445 12th St, S.W. Washington, DC 20554EPIC Time Warp allows you to go backwards on the guideand watch programs up to 72 hours from the original air time!SIGN UP FOR EPIC IPTV TODAY!

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP 7DIRECTIONS:1. Crush your cookies and mix with ½ c. butter and pat into a 9x13 or 8-in pan. Refrigerate 1 hr.2. Spoon softened ice cream on top of crust. Pack well. Freeze.3. Combine the powerdered sugar, evaporated milk, ½ c. butter, and chocolate chips.4. Put your milk mixture in a saucepan, and boil for 8 minutes, stirring constantly. 5. Remove from heat, and add vanilla. Allow to cool. 6. Sprinkle the spanish peanuts over ice cream, and pour cooled sauce over top. Keep frozen.Buster Bar DessertSUBMITTED BY: SHARLENE BAUER FROM WISHEK, NDINGREDIENTS:1 lb. Oreo or Hydrox Cookies1 c. butter8 c. ice cream (1/2 gallon)2 c. powdered sugar1 ½ c. evaporated milk⅔ c. chocolate chips1 tsp. vanilla1 ½ c. spanish peanutsSubmit your favorite recipe to Dakota Table by mailing it to: PO Box 230, Steele, ND 58482 or email marketing@bektel.comRecipes will be randomly drawn for a chance to be published in the Beacon.Submit a recipe to Dakota Table. If we publish your recipe, we will mail you some kitchen goodies!EPIC Time Warp allows you to go backwards on the guideand watch programs up to 72 hours from the original air time!SIGN UP FOR EPIC IPTV TODAY!

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP8SmartHubPay online or on your mobile device with the SmartHub app.Go to bek.coop. From the menu in the corner, tap or click “Pay my Bill”. If this is your first time, select “Sign up to access our Self Service site”.Fill in the information as prompted to create an account.Once you sign in, you can access your billing history and make a payment. After your first payment, you can store your payment information for the next time. This will save you time and make paying your bill easy!Scan to watch a setup tutorial video online.Simplify Your Life – Download the SmartHub AppIn today’s fast-paced world, it’s crucial to have access to services and information right at your fingertips. That’s why BEK Communications is using the SmartHub app. SmartHub is a mobile app that allows our customers to manage their accounts conveniently and eortlessly from their smartphones. With a simple tap, you can pay your bills, set up automatic payments, receive customer alerts, and access customer support, all without needing to visit our oces or make a phone call.Rest assured, BEK Communications will continue to provide the same excellent level of support you have come to expect from us. Our commitment to our customers has always been our priority. SmartHub is just another way for us to serve you better. Features and Benefits:• Manage your account information• Easy payment options• Set up automatic payments• Convenience• Customer Support• Custom AlertsAt BEK Communications, we are always striving to improve our services and make things easier for our valued customers. We invite you to download the app and experience the benefits for yourself.

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP 9Make the Most of Your Wi-Fi Network with BEK Freedom AppUltimate Protection and Customizable ControlsIn today’s hyper-connected world, taking control of your Wi-Fi network has become more important than ever. The BEK Freedom app, included with the BEK Lightband Whole-Home Wi-Fi, gives you the power to manage your household’s devices, manage parental controls, along with a host of other customizable features to make the most out of your wi-fi.With the BEK Freedom app, you set the rules and the app enforces them. Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, the BEK Freedom app is easy to download and even easier to use. Whether you’re looking to protect your devices from cyber threats or set up parental controls for your children’s online activities, this app is designed to cater to your specific needs.Protection Features:• Whole-Home Network Security• Monitor Blocked Threats, Intrusions, and Viruses• Real-Time Alerts About Network Threats• Security Scans on All Your DevicesParental Control Features:• Family Internet Content and Screen Time Control• Usage and History• Safe Search & Content Filtering• Preset O Times & Pause Devices• Device and Activity PrioritiesThe BEK Freedom app is your 24/7 internet watchman, protecting your family’s devices and allowing you to customize your Wi-Fi experience. Download it today and start enjoying the ultimate Wi-Fi experience.

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP10Man In America: A Patriot’s Call to Unity and FreedomHailing from the rural landscapes of Ohio, Seth Holehouse is no stranger to the love for his homeland. With 15 years of intense battle against the oppressive force of Communism in China, Seth thought he knew what struggle meant. However, what he did not anticipate was facing a challenge of liberty right in America. Witnessing freedoms under threat in America, Seth’s fervor and passion as a patriot come alive more than ever.“Man In America” is Seth’s clarion call, a platform he developed to reach out to fellow patriots. More than just a talk show, it serves as a source of education, inspiration, and unity for all those who hold America dear to their hearts. It’s about rallying together, understanding the threats at home, and rekindling the spirit of American freedom.Seth’s dedication to truth and freedom is not just confined to his show. He’s the mind behind the viral video, “The Plot to Steal America”, which received recognition and a share from none other than President Trump, reaching hundreds of millions worldwide.Don’t miss “Man In America”, airing weekdays at 3:00 pm CT. Join Seth in his quest to enlighten, empower, and echo the voice of patriots.Before thewhoops...Call 811 or 1.800.795.0555 at least 48 hours before you dig.North Dakota One-Call

BEK COMMUNICATIONS | BEK.COOP 11BEK TV+ : A Game Changer for Sports and News EnthusiastsAordable Connectivity Program & Lifeline UpdateThe USAC will be transitioning the National Verifier (NV) portal from nv.fcc.gov to GetInternet.gov (for Lifeline benefits) at the end of August. URLs for legacy National Verifier Lifeline Program and the Aordable Connectivity Program (ACP) online applications will be retired. If you qualify or currently receive assistance, please note the following changes:What do you need to know?1. Lifeline program consumers can access the online application at LifelineSupport.org by clicking on the “Apply Now” button.2. ACP consumers can access the online application at GetInternet.gov (for ACP benefits). In an era where streaming has become synonymous with entertainment, BEK TV is excited to introduce the BEK TV+ app. For those who have a love for live sports and news, this live and on-demand application is a dream come true. So, whether you’re a dedicated sports fan, a news junkie, or just someone looking for quality entertainment on-the-go, the BEK TV+ app promises to deliver and then some. Here’s how:It’s Free The very first advantage of the BEK TV+ app is its cost. In a digital age where most streaming services come with monthly charges, BEK TV oers its viewers an opportunity to watch their favorite programs without digging into their pockets.Never Miss A Game High school football holds a special place in many of our hearts. Those Friday night lights, the roaring of the crowds, and the drama on the field create memories that last a lifetime. With the BEK TV+ app, not only can you catch these games live, but if you happen to miss them, you can watch them on demand, anytime, anywhere. All you need to do is downloaded on your device.Local, Local, Local BEK TV’s commitment to delivering local content is unparalleled. In a landscape where global content often overshadows local oerings, BEK TV+ is a refreshing oasis. Watch news programs that highlight local happenings, and watch your favorite high school and collegiate sports teams! In fact, BEK TV+ can broadcast up to three live games in a single night for viewers to choose from or switch between. This app takes pride in ensuring that dedicated fans can catch every moment, every score, every victory of their hometown heroes.Download BEK TV+ on any Apple or Andriod mobile device and on several popular streaming devices, including FireTV and Roku. Introducing BEK TV+Live & On-DemandScan toDownload!Before thewhoops...Call 811 or 1.800.795.0555 at least 48 hours before you dig.North Dakota One-Call

BEK COMMUNICATIONS COOPERATIVE200 East Broadway, PO Box 230, Steele, ND 58482ECRWSS LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER123TRIVIA ENTRYENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY SEPTEMBER 22, 2023Name: ______________________________________________________________________Phone Number: ___________________________________________________________Town: _______________________________________________________________________Clip and send to BEK at:PO Box 230, Steele, ND 58482 You also can email answers to bekcomm@bektel.com. We will be drawing for twenty $5.00 credits to be applied to the winners’ bill.CONGRATS! TO OUR BEACON JULY WINNERSBEACON TRIVIAWatson Johnson | WiltonIrene Sprague | SteeleTerri Monilaws | AbsarakaAlan Jacobson | SuttonDelores Thurn | WishekLaverne Leach | Valley CityLowell Gebhardt | LuverneRosie Erhardt | MandanGwen Boschee | WishekSherri Haak | HagueBeverly Zins | McKenzieLori Koth | BismarckKathy McCormick | MenokenIsadore Gross | KintyreAdella Beck | LintonKathy Biegler | SterlingClaudia Volk | WiltonMadeline Spitzer | Valley CityJoyce Nelson | DriscollRose Erhardt | MandanHow many annual meetings has BEK hosted?What new options do members have with their capital credits?When are RDFC grant applications due this year?