Sunday, May 31, 2009

RE: support for TDS

Laura-- thanks. Just let us know who to send it to. karen


From: Paquin, Gregory [mailto:gpaquin@mcs.k12.ny.us]
Sent: Sun 5/31/2009 10:41 AM
To: Perry, Laura; 'Bill Hunter'; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.'; Dave Wolf; Peck, Don; Elizabeth Graham; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Helene Mellon'; Turbett, J. Patrick; 'Jennifer French'; Montan, Jon; St. Hilaire, Karen; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Laurel Goolden'; Rodriguez, Leigh; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Pat McKeown'; 'Patti Fisher'; Perretta, Francine; 'Phil Deleel'; PhilW@slic.com; Pray, Cheryl; Fountain, Ray; Johnson, Rick; Hack, Rob; SLC IT Blog; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade A. Davis'
Cc: Morrill, Fred
Subject: RE: support for TDS

Looks great Looks good to me!
 
 
Gregory M. Paquin
315-764-3710 Ext. 3168 (W)
315-769-1395 (H)
315-842-0151 (C)

From: Laura Perry [laurap@slic.com]
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 2:48 PM
To: 'Bill Hunter'; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.'; Dave Wolf; 'Donald A. Peck (R)'; Elizabeth Graham; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Helene Mellon'; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Jennifer French'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Karen St. Hilaire'; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Laurel Goolden'; Leigh B Rodriguez; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Pat McKeown'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Phil Deleel'; PhilW@slic.com; Pray, Cheryl; Ray Fountain; 'Rick Johnson'; Rob Hack; SLC IT Blog; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade A. Davis'
Cc: 'Karen St. Hilaire'; Paquin, Gregory; Frederick S. Morrill
Subject: support for TDS

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS’s Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RE: support for TDS

Looks good to me!
 
 
Gregory M. Paquin
315-764-3710 Ext. 3168 (W)
315-769-1395 (H)
315-842-0151 (C)

From: Laura Perry [laurap@slic.com]
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 2:48 PM
To: 'Bill Hunter'; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.'; Dave Wolf; 'Donald A. Peck (R)'; Elizabeth Graham; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Helene Mellon'; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Jennifer French'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Karen St. Hilaire'; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Laurel Goolden'; Leigh B Rodriguez; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Pat McKeown'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Phil Deleel'; PhilW@slic.com; Pray, Cheryl; Ray Fountain; 'Rick Johnson'; Rob Hack; SLC IT Blog; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade A. Davis'
Cc: 'Karen St. Hilaire'; Paquin, Gregory; Frederick S. Morrill
Subject: support for TDS

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS's Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday, May 30, 2009

RE: support for TDS

Laura,
   I also agree with this. 
 
Jen
 

Jennifer French
Supervisor of Instructional Technology
St. Lawrence-Lewis BOCES

30 Court Street
Canton, NY 13617
voice: 315-386-2226  x15107
fax:      315-386-2828

 


From: Greg Stahl [mailto:greg@stlawu.edu]
Sent: Saturday, May 30, 2009 6:51 AM
To: Laura Perry
Cc: Bill Hunter; Carrie Tuttle P. E.; Dave Wolf; Donald A. Peck (R); Elizabeth Graham; Helene Mellon; J. Patrick Turbett; Jennifer French; Jon Montan; Karen St. Hilaire; Kevin Lynch; Laurel Goolden; Leigh B Rodriguez; Marc Rousch; Pat McKeown; Patti Fisher; Perretta, Francine; Phil Deleel; <PhilW@slic.com>; Pray, Cheryl; Ray Fountain; Rick Johnson; Rob Hack; SLC IT Blog; Tom Sauter; Wade A. Davis; Karen St. Hilaire; Greg Paquin; Frederick S. Morrill
Subject: Re: support for TDS

Laura,

I am in agreement with this.

Greg


Sent from Greg's iPhone

On May 29, 2009, at 2:48 PM, "Laura Perry" <laurap@slic.com> wrote:

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

-Laura

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS’s Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

Regards,

Re: support for TDS

Laura,

I am in agreement with this.

Greg


Sent from Greg's iPhone

On May 29, 2009, at 2:48 PM, "Laura Perry" <laurap@slic.com> wrote:

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS's Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Friday, May 29, 2009

Re: support for TDS

Laura,
 
I think it is proper for us to support a company that has already provided service to some of our St. Lawrence County communities and is trying to expand and improve that service.
 
Bill
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 2:48 PM
Subject: support for TDS

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS's Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RE: support for TDS

Laura,

 

I have no objections and think it is a great idea as broadband is a key component of NNY’s infrastructure.

 

Best Regards,

 

Wade

 

Wade A. Davis, Executive Director

Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority

1 Bridge Plaza

Ogdensburg, New York 13669

 

Web:  www.ogdensport.com

email: wadavis@ogdensport.com

tele:   315-393-4080

fax:    315-393-7068

 

From: Laura Perry [mailto:laurap@slic.com]
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 2:49 PM
To: 'Bill Hunter'; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.'; Dave Wolf; 'Donald A. Peck (R)'; Elizabeth Graham; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Helene Mellon'; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Jennifer French'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Karen St. Hilaire'; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Laurel Goolden'; Leigh B Rodriguez; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Pat McKeown'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Phil Deleel'; PhilW@slic.com; Pray, Cheryl; Ray Fountain; 'Rick Johnson'; Rob Hack; SLC IT Blog; 'Tom Sauter'; Wade Davis
Cc: 'Karen St. Hilaire'; Greg Paquin; Frederick S. Morrill
Subject: support for TDS

 

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS’s Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Re: support for TDS

Hello,

this seems like a good approach to me and I do not see any reason not
to support them.

-marc

On May 29, 2009, at 2:48 PM, Laura Perry wrote:

> Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:
>
> I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today. TDS serves Dekalb,
> Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county. They are
> putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding
> available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking
> for our support in the form of a letter to include in their
> application. The money available through RUS is separate and
> distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from
> other providers. RUS has a long standing history of funding the
> development of rural telco infrastructure. TDS is seeking funding
> which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing
> service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28
> other states. TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering
> service in our county. Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter
> which I have revised and copied below.
>
>
>
> I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator,
> Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities
> reside to sign this letter. If there are any objections to this
> recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP. TDS is asking
> for a June 1 turnaround. I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we
> needed additional time to address questions.
>
>
>
> -Laura
>
>
>
> Dear :
>
> St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for
> American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural
> Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet
> access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and
> Russell in our county.
>
>
>
> Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to
> every household. We recognize how important universal broadband is
> for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.
> Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and
> local governments depend on it. As more on-line products and
> services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access
> them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those
> with access.
>
>
>
> TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in
> our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our
> rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people). TDS has a
> proven track record for quality service in our communities. Their
> efforts, along with RUS's Stimulus funding, will certainly help to
> close the gap.
>
>
>
> TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that
> you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus
> programs.
>
>
>
> For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of
> Legislators office at 315-379-2276.
>
>
>
> Regards,
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Marc D. Rusch marc@cadencebuilding.com
Cadence Building PH: 315-287-2852
Redwood, New York 13679 Fax: 315-287-2860

RE: support for TDS

Laura –

 

I agree with your approach and think this would go a long way toward filling in some of the rural service gaps in that area of our County.

 

Thanks,
Carrie

 


From: Laura Perry [mailto:laurap@slic.com]
Sent: Friday, May 29, 2009 2:49 PM
To: 'Bill Hunter'; Carrie Tuttle; David Wolf; 'Donald A. Peck (R)'; Elizabeth Graham; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Helene Mellon'; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Jennifer French'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Karen St. Hilaire'; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Laurel Goolden'; Leigh B Rodriguez; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Pat McKeown'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Phil Deleel'; PhilW@slic.com; Pray, Cheryl; Ray Fountain; 'Rick Johnson'; Rob Hack; SLC IT Blog; Thomas Sauter; 'Wade A. Davis'
Cc: 'Karen St. Hilaire'; Greg Paquin; Frederick S. Morrill
Subject: support for TDS

 

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS’s Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

support for TDS

Dear IT Committee members & Other affected parties:

I spoke to a Bill Schmidt of TDS Telecom today.  TDS serves Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.  They are putting a request for funding together for stimulus funding available through the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) and are looking for our support in the form of a letter to include in their application.  The money available through RUS is separate and distinct from the NTIA funding which we have been hearing about from other providers.  RUS has a long standing history of funding the development of rural telco infrastructure.  TDS is seeking funding which would allow them to expand broadband access to their existing service territory in St. Law Co, as well as their territories in 28 other states.  TDS too has a long proven track record for delivering service in our county.  Mr. Schmidt provided me a sample letter which I have revised and copied below. 

 

I am suggesting the IT Committee recommend our County Administrator, Chair of the Board, and legislator whose district these communities reside to sign this letter.  If there are any objections to this recommendation, please reply to me or the group ASAP.  TDS is asking for a June 1 turnaround.  I committed to a 6/6 – just in case we needed additional time to address questions.

 

-Laura

 

Dear    :

St. Lawrence County strongly supports TDS' efforts to apply for American Recovery and Reinvestment Act monies from the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to strengthen and expand broadband Internet access in the communities of Dekalb, Edwards, Herman, Pierrepont and Russell in our county.

 

Our county is committed to achieving universal broadband access to every household.  We recognize how important universal broadband is for the quality of life for our residents now and into the future.  Additionally, the viability of our businesses, organizations and local governments depend on it.  As more on-line products and services emerge, our households must have the opportunity to access them or they will be at an ever increasing disadvantage than those with access.

 

TDS is acting as a leader in expanding broadband Internet service in our county, with 30% of households overall still unserved due to our rural nature (a population of only 111,000 people).  TDS has a proven track record for quality service in our communities.  Their efforts, along with RUS’s Stimulus funding, will certainly help to close the gap. 

 

TDS is authorized to include this letter in any applications that you may file with federal agencies administering broadband stimulus programs.

 

For further questions, we can be reached through the Board of Legislators office at 315-379-2276.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Meeting Agenda 05-28-09

St. Lawrence County
Information Technology Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
5/28/09, 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Location: Board of Legislators’ Meeting Chambers, Court St., Canton, NY 13617

1. Welcome New Committee Members & Meeting Attendees

2. Review/accept minutes from 4/23/09 meeting

3. Presentation: Joe McCoy, WavHost Networks

4. Strategic Plan Adopted! What’s next:

I. North Country IT Symposium, Fall 2009 – a forum for Business & IT in the North Country
• Sponsors: CU, County
• Do a call for presentations, ask North Country Businesses to talk about how they use technology to grow their business
• Have several tracks for different constituencies (perhaps 3-4 50 minute sessions, with 5 concurrent sessions for 15- 20 presentations).
• We’d arrange for a keynote
• A vendor display area in the Cheel concourse (local and national vendors could come and market their wares to business people).
• The primary short tangible goal of the event is the creation and deployment of the strategic teams charged with carrying out the Project Concepts identified in the plan

II. 2009 Work Plan –DRAFTS of the following documents included with this agenda.
1. 10-minute presentation
2. Directory of service providers & resources
3. Profile of committee members

III. Sponsor a contest honoring innovative uses of technology to accomplish organizational mission

5. State & Federal Funding Opps – an update on status from NYS OIT

Questions & Discussion

Action Items for Next Meeting





Next Meeting: Thurs., June 25, 2009, 2:00 pm – 4:00pm

04_23_09 Meeting Minutes

St. Lawrence County Information Technology Advisory Committee
04/23/09 Meeting Minutes
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: 2nd Floor Conference Room, Human Services Center

Laura Perry called the meeting to order at 11:05 p.m.

1. Welcome New Committee Members & Meeting Attendees
Introductions – Present: Pat Turbett, Greg Stahl, Laura Perry, Cheryl Pray, Rick Johnson, Rob Hack, Debbie White, Carman Branca, Helene Mellon, Dan Churchill, Marc Rusch, Jon Montan, Bill Hunter, Dave Wolfe, Carrie Tuttle, Leigh Rodriguez, Francine Peretta.

2. Review/accept minutes from 03/26/09 meeting
The committee made no changes to the 03/26/09 minutes.

3. Presentation: Carmen Branca, New Visions Power Company -
Carmen Branca and Deb White of New Visions Power made a presentation to the committee regarding their current plans for service deployments in New York State. Mr. Branca explained that there is a frustration for lack of availability of broadband in the area. New Visions would be able to deliver broadband with the existing companies that already have it available. New Visions interest in broadband besides internet is dial tone and cable tv and look to deploy this accessibility. They allow to offer throughout the county and can assist with some of the county weaknesses with availability. New Visions is able to turn out a 10 mb connection looking to increase to 20 mb connection but also making it affordable with a range from $25 - $30 per month. They do have an agreement with the utilities to use and eject high speed signals into their grids. Also, to provide a competitive service to areas that already has broadband service. The committee inquired about to Mr. Branca the timeframe to initialize and implement their services. Mr. Branca indicated that the estimated timeframe would be 6 months to initialize and one year to implement.

Following the presentation the committee shared their thoughts and concerns on the presentation and the committee next steps. After further discussion, the committee members present agreed that the company should be further investigated before the committee recommends any form of deployment for St. Lawrence County. Also, to post committee members’ questions or concerns back to Carmen and to see what New Visions is looking for from the county.

4. Presentation of IT Committee’s Final Strategic Plan—Laura inquired to the committee members anyone willing to speak to the Board of Legislators on behalf of the committee in regards to the plan. The plan has to go through the operations committee to be reviewed and agreed upon to be handed out to the next scheduled board meeting for review. The next meeting for the operations committee is scheduled for May 11th at 5:00 p.m. Laura would like to spend time on the presentation prior to the board meeting.

5. Response to Committee’s letter from Service Provider—Laura noted she had discussion with three providers and received only a follow-up email from Paul Barton. Had discussion with Mr. McCoy regarding the recovery act and would relate his comments to the committee. Would the committee like for him to come in to talk to the committee? Laura will contact Mr. McCoy regarding his availability to attend the committee meeting scheduled for May.

Recap of discussions with Four-Lane Highway Working Group—Laura indicated that she did meet with Jason Clark to inform him that the committee was here and willing to assist. He is in the process of formulating his group.

Recap of discussions with Sheriff—Sheriff Wells has expressed concern in regards to the impact of his operation from the noise that they are receiving over their radios. He feels that the redundant noise that is transmitted over the radios could be affecting his radio availability. The committee briefly discussed the Sheriff’s concerns.



Next Meeting: Thursday, May 28, 2009, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

The meeting adjourned at 2:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 21, 2009

IT Meeting Reminder

Just a quick note before the holiday weekend to remind you that the SLC IT Committee will meet on Thursday, May 28, 2009, 2pm – 4pm in the Board of Legislators Meeting Chambers on Court St. in Canton. Please note the alternate location from our regular meeting location!

We are expecting Mr. McCoy from WavHost Networks to offer a discussion on WavHost’s plans relating to broadband expansion in St. Lawrence County and use of Stimulus Funding. We also have great news to share regarding the Strategic Plan and we have lots of new items on the horizon because of that news (ok, I realize I’m tipping my hand a bit). Join us to get the whole scoop.

I look forward to seeing you and hope you all have a safe, and memorable holiday weekend.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

RE: [SPAM]Re: Web Survey ?

Laura --

I'd like to suggest that you, me, Ruth and Media Central conference call
on this survey requirement...This will help bring us all up to speed and
is a good starting point for building a relationship with them...If you
agree, perhaps Ruth can arrange the call...

Rob

-----Original Message-----
From: Laura Perry [mailto:laurap@slic.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 12:03 PM
To: rhack@twcny.rr.com; 'Helene Mellon'; 'Elizabeth Graham'; Fountain,
Ray; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade A. Davis'; 'SLC IT Blog'; greg@stlawu.edu;
Perretta, Francine; Peck, Don; 'Jennifer French'; Pray, Cheryl; 'Carrie
Tuttle P. E.'; 'Dave Wolf'; Turbett, J. Patrick; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Patti
Fisher'; 'Phil Deleel'; 'Bill Hunter'; Montan, Jon; 'Laurel Goolden';
Johnson, Rick; St. Hilaire, Karen; PhilW@slic.com; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Pat
McKeown'
Cc: Sevick, Joanne; Cobb, Tedra; Doyle, Ruth; Hack, Rob
Subject: RE: [SPAM]Re: Web Survey ?

Great point Rob.

Ruth - can you let us know your thoughts? Let me know if you want to
talk about this further to get any additional background.

-----Original Message-----
From: rhack@twcny.rr.com [mailto:rhack@twcny.rr.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 11:57 AM
To: 'Helene Mellon'; Elizabeth Graham; Ray Fountain; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade
A. Davis'; SLC IT Blog; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Donald
A. Peck (R)'; 'Jennifer French'; Pray, Cheryl; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.';
Dave Wolf; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Phil
Deleel'; 'Bill Hunter'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Laurel Goolden'; 'Rick Johnson';
'Karen St. Hilaire'; PhilW@slic.com; Laura Perry; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Pat
McKeown'
Cc: 'Sevick, Joanne'; 'Tedra Cobb'; rdoyle@stlawco.org;
rhack@stlawco.org
Subject: [SPAM]Re: Web Survey ?

Laura, et al --

I'm thinking we should ask Ruth Doyle, who is currently managing the
website redesign project, to ask Media Central what tool to
recommend...Media Central was selected for the website redesign...

As I'm sure this won't be the last time we will need a survey, I suggest
we make it part of our suite of tools with Media Central...

In the interim as the new site is being built, they could even host this
survey and make it acccessible on the current site...

I have not met Media Central yet - and have just recently begun reading
the RFP and response...

Thoughts, comments?...

Rob


---- Laura Perry <laurap@slic.com> wrote:
> The County is seeking the input and advice from the IT Committee
> regarding an upcoming county wide survey which will seek feedback
> regarding customer service issues related to County services. The
> survey committee is interested in making the survey available on the
> web and on paper - much the same way we conducted our 2008 survey.
> The committee is interested in receiving recommendations on utilizing
> the web to conduct a survey. Using the Allen Tunnel survey tool (the
> online survey the IT Committee used) is an option but that seems to be

> slightly overkill since there is no need to tie responses to a
> geographic location. I'm thinking there is a widely available, and
> low cost web based service that IT Committee folks may have experience

> using. Survey monkey has been tossed out as an example, but not
having used it before I'm not familiar with its capabilities or
limitations.
>
>
>
>
> If you have suggestions on this topic, please offer them up. Thanks!
>
>
>
> -Laura
>
>
>

RE: [SPAM]Re: Web Survey ?

Great point Rob.

Ruth - can you let us know your thoughts? Let me know if you want to talk about this further to get any additional background.

-----Original Message-----
From: rhack@twcny.rr.com [mailto:rhack@twcny.rr.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 11:57 AM
To: 'Helene Mellon'; Elizabeth Graham; Ray Fountain; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade A. Davis'; SLC IT Blog; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Donald A. Peck (R)'; 'Jennifer French'; Pray, Cheryl; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.'; Dave Wolf; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Phil Deleel'; 'Bill Hunter'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Laurel Goolden'; 'Rick Johnson'; 'Karen St. Hilaire'; PhilW@slic.com; Laura Perry; 'Kevin Lynch'; 'Pat McKeown'
Cc: 'Sevick, Joanne'; 'Tedra Cobb'; rdoyle@stlawco.org; rhack@stlawco.org
Subject: [SPAM]Re: Web Survey ?

Laura, et al --

I'm thinking we should ask Ruth Doyle, who is currently managing the website redesign project, to ask Media Central what tool to recommend...Media Central was selected for the website redesign...

As I'm sure this won't be the last time we will need a survey, I suggest we make it part of our suite of tools with Media Central...

In the interim as the new site is being built, they could even host this survey and make it acccessible on the current site...

I have not met Media Central yet - and have just recently begun reading the RFP and response...

Thoughts, comments?...

Rob


---- Laura Perry <laurap@slic.com> wrote:
> The County is seeking the input and advice from the IT Committee regarding
> an upcoming county wide survey which will seek feedback regarding customer
> service issues related to County services. The survey committee is
> interested in making the survey available on the web and on paper - much the
> same way we conducted our 2008 survey. The committee is interested in
> receiving recommendations on utilizing the web to conduct a survey. Using
> the Allen Tunnel survey tool (the online survey the IT Committee used) is an
> option but that seems to be slightly overkill since there is no need to tie
> responses to a geographic location. I'm thinking there is a widely
> available, and low cost web based service that IT Committee folks may have
> experience using. Survey monkey has been tossed out as an example, but not
> having used it before I'm not familiar with its capabilities or limitations.
>
>
>
>
> If you have suggestions on this topic, please offer them up. Thanks!
>
>
>
> -Laura
>
>
>

Re: Web Survey ?

Laura, et al --

I'm thinking we should ask Ruth Doyle, who is currently managing the website redesign project, to ask Media Central what tool to recommend...Media Central was selected for the website redesign...

As I'm sure this won't be the last time we will need a survey, I suggest we make it part of our suite of tools with Media Central...

In the interim as the new site is being built, they could even host this survey and make it acccessible on the current site...

I have not met Media Central yet - and have just recently begun reading the RFP and response...

Thoughts, comments?...

Rob


---- Laura Perry <laurap@slic.com> wrote:
> The County is seeking the input and advice from the IT Committee regarding
> an upcoming county wide survey which will seek feedback regarding customer
> service issues related to County services. The survey committee is
> interested in making the survey available on the web and on paper - much the
> same way we conducted our 2008 survey. The committee is interested in
> receiving recommendations on utilizing the web to conduct a survey. Using
> the Allen Tunnel survey tool (the online survey the IT Committee used) is an
> option but that seems to be slightly overkill since there is no need to tie
> responses to a geographic location. I'm thinking there is a widely
> available, and low cost web based service that IT Committee folks may have
> experience using. Survey monkey has been tossed out as an example, but not
> having used it before I'm not familiar with its capabilities or limitations.
>
>
>
>
> If you have suggestions on this topic, please offer them up. Thanks!
>
>
>
> -Laura
>
>
>

RE: Web Survey ?

Good Morning,

First of all , let me apologize for being MIA, it’s been quite crazy lately.

 

Would the geographic info be helpful?  Would distance and accessibility to a service be reflected based on where residents live?  Are there services that cover multiple areas, and perhaps serve some areas better than others?

 

Just thoughts… If that’s not important, Survey Monkey seems to be a good tool (we use it hear) and it’s affordable.

 

Kevin

 

 

 

From: Laura Perry [mailto:laurap@slic.com]
Sent: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 9:29 AM
To: 'Bill Hunter'; 'Carrie Tuttle P. E.'; Dave Wolf; 'Donald A. Peck (R)'; Elizabeth Graham; greg@stlawu.edu; 'Helene Mellon'; J. Patrick Turbett; 'Jennifer French'; 'Jon Montan'; 'Karen St. Hilaire'; Kevin Lynch; 'Laurel Goolden'; 'Marc Rousch'; 'Pat McKeown'; 'Patti Fisher'; 'Perretta, Francine'; 'Phil Deleel'; PhilW@slic.com; Pray, Cheryl; Ray Fountain; 'Rick Johnson'; Rob Hack; SLC IT Blog; 'Tom Sauter'; 'Wade A. Davis'
Cc: 'Sevick, Joanne'; 'Tedra Cobb'
Subject: Web Survey ?

 

The County is seeking the input and advice from the IT Committee regarding an upcoming county wide survey which will seek feedback regarding customer service issues related to County services.  The survey committee is interested in making the survey available on the web and on paper – much the same way we conducted our 2008 survey.  The committee is interested in receiving recommendations on utilizing the web to conduct a survey.  Using the Allen Tunnel survey tool (the online survey the IT Committee used) is an option but that seems to be slightly overkill since there is no need to tie responses to a geographic location.  I’m thinking there is a widely available, and low cost web based service that IT Committee folks may have experience using.  Survey monkey has been tossed out as an example, but not having used it before I’m not familiar with its capabilities or limitations. 

 

If you have suggestions on this topic, please offer them up.  Thanks!

 

-Laura

 

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Web Survey ?

The County is seeking the input and advice from the IT Committee regarding an upcoming county wide survey which will seek feedback regarding customer service issues related to County services.  The survey committee is interested in making the survey available on the web and on paper – much the same way we conducted our 2008 survey.  The committee is interested in receiving recommendations on utilizing the web to conduct a survey.  Using the Allen Tunnel survey tool (the online survey the IT Committee used) is an option but that seems to be slightly overkill since there is no need to tie responses to a geographic location.  I’m thinking there is a widely available, and low cost web based service that IT Committee folks may have experience using.  Survey monkey has been tossed out as an example, but not having used it before I’m not familiar with its capabilities or limitations. 

 

If you have suggestions on this topic, please offer them up.  Thanks!

 

-Laura