EcliptixNet Broadband Receives Federal Grant
For over 2 years, the dream of “bringing the light of wireless broadband to shadowed communities” has loomed over my buddy’s head. Well I’m proud to announce that EcliptixNet Broadband received a little light itself in the form of a $529,340.00 check. I’ve been assisting Jeff as time allows (alongside growing Goomzee) to try and help realize his dream, a wireless (wi-fi/wi-max) broadband Internet Service Provider (WISP) that offers connectivity to rural communities from Eastern Washington to Western Montana. Jeff was relentless in his pursuit, at times almost sick to his stomach knowing the opportunity but running into roadblocks along the way. I can relate.
Well as you see from the photo above, the federal grant that provides seed capital to “light up” Springdale Washington is a great first step towards realizing the dream. Jeff is a native Montanan, born and raised in Alberton Montana (30 miles west of Missoula) so he knows very well the challenges many smaller communities face, especially in this technology-driven era. Congratulations Jeff and you see persistance and true passion does come with rewards in due time. 
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November 8th, 2006 at 7:47 pm
RE-PRINTED FROM HIGHERELEVATIONS.COM, MEDIA SITE FOR SPRINGDALE, WA:
USDA Rural Development Awards Broadband Grant to Springdale
Broadband is coming! Broadband is coming!
State Director Jon DeVaney of USDA Rural Development and Congresswoman Cathy McMorris, of the 5th District, presented the $529,340 ceremonial check to EcliptixNet founder Jeff Tamietti and Springdale Mayor, Mike Pammler
on October 6, 2006 in the town park. “USDA Rural Development is committed to the future of rural communities, and our Community Connect Broadband Grant Program, a presidential initiative, provides financial assistance to bring broadband service to rural communities where such service does not currently exists,” DeVaney said. “Broadband is critical to ensuring that rural residents and rural businesses have access to the same services as urban and suburban communities.” Rural Development has invested over $72 billion since the beginning of the Bush Administration.
This provides equity and technical assistance to finance and foster growth for both homeownership and business development. It also helps with critical community and technology infrastructure.
Over 1.2 million jobs have been created or saved through these investments.
Why is broadband a good thing for Springdale? It enables town offices to be connected to and communicate effectively with necessary offices through video conferencing and message boards. This communication proves crucial to running and managing the town efficiently and productively. It brings the availability of an entire medical network of doctors and specialists directly to our clinics. This opens the door for more specialized health care right in Springdale. Current medical conferences could be viewed without medical staff leaving Springdale.
Broadband will allow the police department to access real time national criminal databases and the Amber Alert system. It will allow Stevens County Police Department, State Highway Patrol, and Bureau of Indian Affairs to access vital Springdale records at a faster rate. High speed internet will provide multiple training opportunities for both career and volunteer firefighters. With a 95% volunteer fire department, training is a critical asset.
EcliptixNet has partnered with Goomzee Web Services, LLC, an online retail development company that brings affordable online retail services to rural business. Business owners and merchants in Springdale will be able to reach a wider variety of people and it can create more jobs. Residents as well will be able to open their own online storefronts and work from home. The introduction of this broadband system can breathe new life into the economy of Springdale.
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(By Misty Shepherd/Linda Ritts)