The BLC Connection Podcast is a fun and informative show from Ben Lomand Connect that answers your questions about the internet, Wi-Fi, home security and more, and brings you information on the stories and events in “Ben Lomand Country.” Bryan, Karen and Micah take you behind the scenes of Ben Lomand Connect, where the cooperative connects Middle Tennessee with the latest in communications technology and with businesses that are making a difference in our service territory. The BLC Connectio ...
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A podcast getting to know the Backside community at Churchill Downs along with the well-known names in the horseracing and Louisville communities! The podcast is produced by the Backside Learning Center, a non-profit organization that focuses on empowering and partnering with equine workers and their families at Churchill Downs and beyond.
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Buffalo Bills football Cover art photo provided by Geoff Scott on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/@gscott16
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Ep. 22: Give for Good Louisville Special - Fundraising for the Arts
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On this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are focusing on Give for Good Louisville, the largest fundraising day of the year in the city! Taking place on September 12th, our focus for our fundraiser will be the arts programming at the BLC, specifically our work with artist Sara Noori and Fund for the Arts. First, speak with Sara as she dives int…
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“Driving forward with Bridgestone…and then going ‘Wayback’!”
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Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… All things Bridgestone with Bridgestone Morrison Plant Manager Tim Painter. What is “The Wayback Machine” and what does it do? The latest on community events, Channel 6, The Connection Magazine, and more! To give us feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests email us at blcpodcast@benloman…
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Ep. 21: Two Decades of Impact - Celebrating the Backside Learning Center's 20th Anniversary
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Happy 20th Anniversary to the Backside Learning Center🎉 A special thank you to our amazing staff, volunteers, donors, and supporters who have helped us along the way! On this week's podcast episode of Behind the Backstretch🎙️, we talk to the BLC’S Executive Director Sherry Stanley and Deputy Director Lauren DeGeorge. They discuss how the BLC has gr…
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Ep. 20: Sipping for a Cause: Expert Insights into Woodford Reserve's $15,000 Whiskey and Rare Mint Julep Cups Benefitting the Racetrack Community!
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On the newest episode of our podcast, Behind the Backstretch, we highlight our incredible partnership with Woodford Reserve! For the 150th Kentucky Derby, the BLC was chosen as the charitable partner of their $1,000 Mint Julep Program, in which all proceeds from sales of gold and silver Mint Julep cups are donated to the charity. In addition to thi…
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In our thirteenth episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… Our FIRST video podcast (which can be found at our Ben Lomand Connect YouTube Channel) and all things FiRST National Bank of Middle Tennessee with President Pieter van Vuuren. What is multi-Gig? Micah’s Show and Tell: What is a Firewall and what does it do? The latest …
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Ep. 19: Thoroughbred Industry Leaders Change the Game for the BLC this Kentucky Derby 150
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On this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we have a packed lineup for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby! With major BLC supporter and part-owner Brook Smith enrolling Derby contender Sierra Leone in our Purses for a Purpose initiative, we focus on what this means for our organization. We first speak with Brook about what this week means for …
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Ep. 18: Derby Handicapping Social 2024 w/ Donna Barton Brothers & Buff Bradley
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On this week's episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are focusing on our 3rd annual Derby Handicapping Social taking place on April 16th at the Louisville Thoroughbred Society. This event acts as a kickoff to the Derby season and is a major awareness event for our organization. Co-hosted by BLC intern Samantha Versocki, we begin by discussing her b…
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Buds & Blooms/Tristar Plants – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Buds & Blooms and Tristar Plants have greenhouses in Sparta, Tennessee, that sell plant varieties locally and nationally! Listen to Owner Allen Selby as he discusses the importance of small businesses helping one another during times of crisis and how he broadened his market when the opportunity presented itself.…
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Ep. 17: New Year's Special w/ Luz Valdespino & Cathleen Murphy
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On this episode of the podcast, we ring in the new year by talking with two members of our community, staff member Luz Valdespino & BLC supporter Cathleen Murphy! First, we speak with the BLC's own Youth and Family Case Coordinator Luz Valdespino as she discusses her role with the BLC, her connection with the community that she works with, and some…
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Mad Cow Running Company – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Mad Cow Running Company has been a wonderful asset to the McMinnville community. The store provides all the shoes, equipment, and encouragement you need to get outside and get moving! Owner Monica Moore joined the show to tell us her vision for the store and a healthier community.By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep.16: Benefit for the Backside 2023 w/ Robin Rinderspacher & Pam Wessel
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On this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are gearing up for the 17th Annual Benefit for the Backside coming up in just about 2 weeks! We speak with two individuals who have been heavily involved in the planning process for this event as well as share details on the event itself. First, we talk with event consultant Robin Rinderspacher who talk…
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Ep. 15: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month // Celebrando el Mes de la Herenica Hispana
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Our FIFTEENTH episode of the “Beyond the Backstretch” is out now! On this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month! This month is especially important to us as 80% of the 1,000+ backstretch workers at Churchill Downs come from Spanish-speaking countries. On this episode, we get to know two beloved members of our…
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In our twelfth episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… All things White County with Sparta District Manager Ben Clark and District Customer Relations Supervisor Tammy Odom. “Tech to School”: The latest technology and app recommendations for students young and old. The latest at Channel 6 and outdoor events around our area. Mi…
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Ep. 14: Give for Good Louisville 2023 w/ Alexina Wilson & Glenn Kosse
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On this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are gearing up for next month's Give for Good Louisville, which is the largest annual fundraising day in the city of Louisville! We sit down with two members of the BLC team to discuss their journeys to our organization and the importance of this day for us! First, we sit down with Volunteer and Adult E…
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The Monroe on 415th – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Joshua and Sarah Morgan own The Monroe on 415th, a modern wedding venue in Middle Tennessee. Sarah discusses how each detail of the venue — from the design to vendor recommendations — aims to make each couple's wedding day a perfect and memorable experience.By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep. 13: Get to Know our Teen Support Group - Creciendo Juntos
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On this month's episode of "Behind the Backstretch," we introduce listeners to Creciendo Juntos, a teen support group for teens of backside workers! While beginning as a therapy group, this group has evolved dramatically since its inception into a platform for leadership and social change for its members. First, we speak with Elena Tarullo, a youth…
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In our eleventh episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… All things Arlo with Information Systems and Managed IT Manager Chris Centracchio. Mailbag Segment: The explanation of IP addresses with Network Operations Supervisor Clent Kesey. The latest at Channel 6, the Connection magazine, and outdoor events around our area. Micah…
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Ep. 12: 149th Kentucky Derby w/ Jorge Abrego, Ana Gonzalez, & Katie Tolbert
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On this month’s episode of the Behind the Backstretch podcast, we have an action-packed lineup of individuals who are all playing various roles in this year’s Kentucky Derby & Oaks! First, we get to hear from assistant trainer Jorge Abrego, who works with Brad Cox and has four horses in this year’s Kentucky Derby. He discusses his unique journey, t…
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Mountain T.O.P. – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Julie Keel, co-host of the Housing Hub Podcast, joined the show to discuss bringing a spotlight on housing needs in the Upper Cumberland by podcasting. Aided by a South Cumberland Community Fund grant, Keel and co-host Sophia Wickersham work to centralize information for their clients.By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep. 11: Learn About Our Spring Event & Purses For a Purpose Program with Special Guests
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For the 11th episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are gearing up for our upcoming spring event, the Backside Learning Center’s Derby Handicapping Social! This event, which takes place on April 18th at the Louisville Thoroughbred Society, acts as a kickoff to the Kentucky Derby season in addition to an opportunity for attendees to learn about progr…
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LIVE from the 2023 Ben Lomand Connect Annual Meeting!
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In our 10th episode, Bryan and Karen find themselves talking about… The past, present, and future of Ben Lomand Connect with board members Joe Roper and Gerald Sitz. Ben Lomand Connect’s help in the farming and finance sectors with Mr. Roper and Mr. Sitz. Plus, the latest at Channel 6, the Ben Lomand Connect YouTube Channel, The Connection magazine…
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Ep. 10: Celebrating Women's Month w/ Merlin Cano & Alma Aldana
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On the 10th episode of Behind the Backstretch, we celebrate Women's Month by speaking with two incredible staff members at the Backside Learning Center, Merlin Cano & Alma Aldana! We first speak with Merlin, who is the health and wellness coordinator at the BLC. She talks about her journey to the US, her experience working at the racetrack, how she…
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Ep. 9: Special Edition for Black History Month & Valentine's Day
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On this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are celebrating Black History Month as we get to speak with trainer Mark Simms Jr! In our discussion with Mark, he delves into how he got into horse racing, his ambitions within the sport, what it's like to be a black trainer in the current industry, and what Black History Month means to him. Additional…
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In our ninth episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… Ben Lomand Security installation and layout discussion with Tim Sharpe Security Smart Home devices to enhance your home or business with Blake Thomas The latest at Channel 6, the Connection magazine and indoor events around our area Micah’s Trivia and more!…
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Beersheba Springs Medical Clinic — Above and Beyond Businesses
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Mandy Eller, executive director of Beersheba Springs Medical Clinic, discusses the health care challenges of rural Tennessee and how the clinic addresses those challenges in Grundy County.By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep. 8: Special Edition for the 16th Annual Benefit for the Backside
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On this month's episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are focusing on our largest annual fundraiser, the Benefit for the Backside, that takes place on November 18th, 2022! We first get to hear from event planner Sterling Franklin as she dives into what the benefit is for, what the schedule for the day will look like, and how people can be involved …
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Community, Connectivity, and Telecom Cooperatives
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Carrie Huckeby, executive director of the Tennessee Broadband Association, joined the podcast to discuss the history of telecom cooperatives, broadband expansion across our state, and the importance of engaging the next generation to continue the legacy of cooperatives.By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep. 7: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with Alma Aldana, Pam Conway, & Jose Luis Rodriguez
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On this month's episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with three separate interviews that shine a light on three unique perspectives within our community! We get to hear from the BLC's own Adult Programs Manager Alma Aldana, current Board president Pam Conway, and jockey Jose Luis Rodriguez as they discuss th…
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In our eighth episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… HUGE grant news for residents of Cumberland and Coffee counties and why grants are important. A behind-the-scenes look at what went on during the August partial outage. The latest at Channel 6 and the Mobile Wi-Fi Van. Micah’s Trivia and more!…
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In our seventh episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves talking about… Talking all things about Network Operations with Bill Jennings and Albert Frasier. What smart home technology are we using today and what are the benefits? The latest on Channel 6 and area fair schedules, plus items you and your family can grab from us there. Micah’s Triv…
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Ep. 6: The Man Behind the Booth - Meet Churchill Downs Announcer Travis Stone
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On the 6th episode of Behind the Backstretch, we are joined by Churchill Downs track announcer Travis Stone and BLC board member Cory Stauble! Travis Stone has been the official track announcer at Churchill Downs since 2015. In this podcast, he discusses his upbringing and what led to his love of calling races, the importance of backside workers an…
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Motlow State Automation and Robotics Training Center – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Larry Flatt, executive director at Motlow State Automation and Robotics Training Center, discusses how the center is preparing its students to help meet growing workforce demands in Tennessee.By Ben Lomand Connect
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In our sixth episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves back at the Main Branch and talking about… Customer service and sales with Business Development & Customer Relations Manager Gena Barry. What are GigaMesh Extenders and why might I need them? The latest in Channel 6 and area events. Micah’s Trivia and more!…
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Ep. 5: Meet Community Member, Mom, and Groom Bertila Quinteros
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On the newest episode of the “Behind the Backstretch” podcast, we get to hear conversations with Bertila Quinteros and the BLC’s own Lauren DeGeorge! Bertila Quinteros is a groom at Churchill Downs and was recently featured in the magazine “Today’s Woman.” She discusses her journey to the United States, her experience working on the backside, and h…
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McMinnville Drug Center – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Dr. Margaret Sutton, co-owner of McMinnville Drug Center, joined the show to discuss how technology has helped the pharmacy better serve its community. Technology brings faster service, helpful programs, and better care to customers.By Ben Lomand Connect
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The Who, What, When, Where, and How of Fiber Builds!
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In our fifth episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah find themselves at the BLC Plant Operations Facility and talking about… What goes into getting fiber built and run to your home, plus the latest build updates with Director of Operations Chad Dees. What are ExperienceIQ and ProtectIQ and why do I need them? The latest in The Connection Magazine, Channel …
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Bybee Branch Church of Christ – Above and Beyond Businesses
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Tony Lawrence from the Bybee Branch Church of Christ joined this episode to discuss how the church didn't modify its message, but how it was conveyed in a different way during COVID. The church used technology to ensure that members and visitors – whether at home, in the hospital, or around the world – could still participate in services during the…
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Ep. 4: Meet the Youth Team and Plans for Summer 2022
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In this episode of Behind the Backstretch, we get to hear from Dina Busaleh and Martha Popescu, two members of our youth team who discuss their roles at the BLC, the plans for summer programming for the children of backside workers, and why their work is so important to them. Then, we get to hear from Kenny Pritchett, a long-time volunteer who has …
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Episode FORE: Podcasting from the Crossville office!
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In our “foreth” episode Bryan, Karen and Micah find themselves in “The Golf Capital of Tennessee” and talk about… -The growth of fiber throughout Cumberland County with District Office Manager Tommy Brown and Business Sales Representative Rosa Smith. -Why do I need the Ben Lomand Home App and what does it do? -The latest in the Connection Magazine …
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Ep. 3: Kentucky Derby 148 Edition with Brook Smith & Carla Grego
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Happy Derby Week from the BLC! 🐴🎉We have an action-packed episode this week, as we first speak with current board member Carla Grego about her experience at Churchill Downs and the momentum she sees picking up for the Backside Learning Center. Then, diving into that momentum, we get to hear from Brook Smith, a long-time BLC supporter who discusses …
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The Biz Foundry — Above and Beyond Businesses
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Karen is joined on this episode by Tiffany Anton, Vice President of The Biz Foundry. From workshops and training programs to providing a co-worker space and business connections, The Biz Foundry helps entrepreneurs no matter where they are in their small business journey.By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep. 2: Get to Know the Groom with Roberto Gonzalez
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In the second episode of Behind the Backstretch, we get to hear from Roberto Gonzalez, a groom and hot walker who has nearly 30 years of experience on the backside of Churchill Downs and racetracks around the country. Additionally, communications coordinator Peyton Hobson joins the show to discuss various happenings at the Backside Learning Center.…
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In our third episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah talk about… -The state of Ben Lomand Connect with Board President Roger Bynum (Coffee County) and Vice President Cain Rogers (White County). -What is a Biz Box? -The latest at Channel 6, and area events. and much more!By Ben Lomand Connect
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Ep. 1: Welcome to the Backside with TVG's Caton Bredar
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The very first episode of Behind the Backstretch, a podcast brought to you by the Backside Learning Center! In this episode, we get to hear from award-winning journalist and legendary broadcaster Caton Bredar (as seen on TVG, ESPN, ABC & more) and Executive Director of the Backside Learning Center Sherry Stanley. (0:00) - Introduction to podcast (2…
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Linen and Grace — Above and Beyond Businesses
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Karen is joined on this episode by Vickie Benedict, owner of Linen and Grace Boutique in downtown McMinnville. After purchasing the store, Vickie knew she wanted to make changes, but how could she do that without upsetting the loyal customer base? Customer feedback, faith and prayer led to a rebrand that has proven to be a huge success. Listen as w…
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In our second episode Bryan, Karen, and Micah talk about… -revolutionary new Gig/Gig pricing, global supply chain issues, fiber build updates, and annual meeting info with BLC GM/CEO Greg Smartt, -a deep dive into the dual-band, Wi-Fi 6 GigaSpire Blast router and GigaMesh Extenders. -what’s happening in the new BLC Connection magazine, Channel 6, a…
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Caney Fork Electric - Above and Beyond Businesses
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Karen is joined on this episode by General Manager Bill Rogers and Assistant General Manager Ben Newman of Caney Fork Electric Cooperative. They discuss how members should respond in moments of crisis and how they can help mitigate outages to keep the power on.By Ben Lomand Connect
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In our first episode, Bryan, Karen, and Micah talk about... the 24/7 Network Support Center and how Donette Freeman's team is ready to meet customers's needs, the difference between fiber and copper internet service and why speed is important, Ben Lomand Connect's fiber build plans for Quarters 1 and 2 of 2022, and much more! To learn more about Be…
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The crew breaks down the upcoming NFL draft. Full first round mock and a look into the rest of the draft.
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Buffalo Bills game recap
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