Reprinted with permission from the Allenspark Wind, December 2023 Vol. 50, No. 11, June 2024 Vol. 51, No. 5, by Edward Yagi
As Allenspark’s snowbirds return to our area and the annual rituals of opening up cabins, repairing snow and wind damage, and checking up with friends and neighbors are in full swing, a new item should be on everyone’s checklist this year: keeping abreast of the Trailblazer internet rollout.
In order to be good consumers, it is incumbent on all of us to do our homework and understand the terminology. It is with this in mind that the Wind has compiled this handy list of high-speed internet terms.
Broadband: In the distant past this referred to music groups like the the Bangles, the Go-Go’s, and Bananarama. Now it refers to high-speed data access, and by “high” we mean really high:10 gigabits per second (10 Gbps), which is 100 times faster than DSL – and 178,571 times faster than the old dial-up you used when the internet first came out.
DSL: An increasingly obsolete form of internet connection that uses existing telephone lines. Dial-up simply hijacked voice bandwidth and replaced it with data (which was why you couldn’t walk and chew gum at the same time in 1994). DSL uses “black box” software and equipment that separates voice from data on the same line at different frequencies. We told you this before.
ONT: OK this is new one. An Optical Network Terminal is the device in your home that converts optical signals from the FOC into the electrical signals used by your computers, phones, WiFi routers, etc. You can think of it as a fancy, advanced modem but you won’t be very “with it” if you do.
FOC: Fiber optic cable. C’mon, you should all know this by now.
EPP&C: Estes Park Power & Communications. Trailblazer is an ISP (internet service provider) that operates within EPP&C. Abbreviated to just “P&C” by cool people. The only people up here who have and are bringing you FOC.
UPS: This could either be the folks who deliver pack-ages to your doorstop or Uninterruptable Power Supply. In the latter case, a UPS is a kind of fancy battery that you install between the electrical outlet and the device you want to power or protect. A UPS can provide voltage regulation, surge protection, and backup power from anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. This last part is important because you might suffer from a….
PSD: This is as bad as it sounds: Power Supply Disruption. Basically, a blackout, due to either equipment failure, an accident, or probably the most common in Allenspark, weather factors such as high winds or heavy snow. But if you were an Xcel customer a few weeks ago, you probably got it with a…..
PSPS: Public Safety Power Shutoff. This is where a utility intentionally shuts off electricity to prevent power lines from sparking fires in potentially dangerous conditions. According to Estes Park Director of Utilities Reuben “Bomb.com” Bergsten, EPP&C is reluctant to do a PSPS, since this tends to mess up your morning, afternoon, or evening. But since anything is better than a Maui or a Marshall (fire), it will always be a possibility.
BTW, Trailblazer has its own internal emergency pow-er sources. This means that even if the electrical grid goes down, assuming you have EPP&C Trailblazer FOC and a UPS hooked up to your ONT, even with a PSD or PSPS you should still have internet connectivity long enough to at least access EMER INFO.
Just FYI. M.O.N.E.Y.: In 21st century Colorado, a series of zeros and ones in electronic financial ledgers that greatly deter-mines in what month, probably this year, Trailblazer service will reach our homes in Allenspark.
Vault covers & non-service impacting lines: Forget it. You don’t need to know.
Shock: A powerful but not-unpleasant emotion of surprise such as that felt by “Sean E” when Trailblazer hiked 1/8 of a mile through three feet of snow to do an installation at their home on March 15. If that date rings a bell, it was the day after Snowmageddon 2024. A “great bunch of dudes,” according to Sean, spent most of the day shoveling in order to do the installation. The dudettes, presumably, had the day off.
So unless you really enjoy having your internet crash frequently or waiting five minutes for your cat videos to download, you should have Trailblazer’s phone number on speed-dial and start making tentative preparations now, especially if you’re not a year-rounder, to get hooked up as soon as the service is available at your location.
And one more btw, Estes Park just had a new Town Board and new Mayor sworn in recently. Maybe they can help Trailblazer complete its roll-out by finding some M.O.N.E.Y.
It’s time for a community update as Trailblazer, with your invaluable support, continues planning the final phase of its fiber broadband buildout.
The project has reached a pivotal milestone by completing the majority of the main construction in our designated service areas. These areas include most parts within the Estes Park Town limits, extending north to Glen Haven and progressing along Highway 7 towards Allenspark. While this is the backbone of the fiber network, we still have a long way to go to bring service to everyone, particularly those in more remote locations. The desire for service has been overwhelmingly positive. Our installation calendar is currently booked well into the fall.
Meanwhile, we are re-strategizing our fiber construction to the remaining unbuilt areas of our community. With the shift to internal staff completing all new construction and installations, the remaining buildout takes additional time and careful consideration. These areas are challenging because of their distance, lower density, and, in most cases, difficult terrain. As you might expect, these challenges also make this final portion of the buildout more expensive.
In short, all main construction has been placed on hold as the original funding for the project has been exhausted due to the rising costs of construction materials and supply issues. While Trailblazer is thriving as a business, we haven’t been open long enough to generate a large enough revenue pool yet to use for mainline construction, though we are covering costs and meeting bond obligations without raising rates or using tax dollars as we originally committed to. We do prioritize where to put our efforts and resources based on the rate of return possible compared to the cost to build and the interest we have in Trailblazer based on the number of registrations from residents and businesses in a location.
Inflation has exponentially increased the cost of doing business for Trailblazer, as it has for most other companies and families in recent years. As a result, Trailblazer is actively seeking broadband funding through various grants to assist with rising material and construction costs in rural buildout areas. Trailblazer received a small amount of grant funding; however, most grant efforts proved unsuccessful with intense competition for too few dollars. The good news is that more grant money is available in 2024; however, those dollars are only applicable to “rural” buildouts. Other funding sources are not an option at this time, so we are focusing on generating additional revenue by building the outlying locations that qualify for grant funding first.
Waiting for a good thing is never easy – whether it is grant money or better internet service – and we appreciate the patience of our neighbors who do not yet have access to Trailblazer Broadband service. While there is no timeline at present, Trailblazer is working diligently to deliver this vital service as quickly as possible.
What can you do to help? Please take a moment to email Congressman Joe Neguse, your 2nd District Representative, describing your internet experience and asking for his support for broadband grants in our community.
Check the Trailblazer News Page and Construction Schedule for additional updates. If you haven’t already done so, please Register to Stay Informed so we can reach out when service is available in your area.
🎉🌐 Welcome to the epicenter of connectivity and community vibes – Estes Park! 🌟 As summer ramps up and activities abound, Trailblazer Broadband is connecting our community in ways you may not have thought about. And when high season hits and everyone and their aunt is scrambling for internet access, Trailblazer’s extra bandwidth swoops in at the speed of light, ensuring smooth sailing for all our online endeavors!
Where in the world is Trailblazer Broadband, you ask? Weaving its digital magic around town like a modern-day wizard to over 3,500 homes across the valley. But wait, there’s more! Trailblazer doesn’t just power those lucky users; it’s the reliable heartbeat behind over 300 businesses, sprinkling broadband joy like confetti at a party!
🏞️ Picture this: you’re lounging in Bond Park, soaking up the sun, and suddenly realize you’re not just basking in nature’s glory but also in the glow of #WapitiWiFi! That’s right, courtesy of Trailblazer Broadband, you’re surfing the digital waves without a care in the world for free with this full time WiFi access in and around Town Hall whenever you need it. No login, no password, just pure, unadulterated internet freedom!
🎶 Let’s groove into the heart of town where the Farmer’s Market sizzles, Elk Fest bugles, and local music fills the air with harmony. Cast your eyes around the park to the enticing shops and mouth watering food choices, many of which are part of the Trailblazer connected community.
🏛️ But hey, if you’re feeling a bit nostalgic and want to take a journey through time, why not swing by the Museum? It’s like a time machine with 30,000 treasures waiting to transport you through Estes Park’s rich history! And fear not, even if you’re couch-bound, dive into their digital treasure trove – from vintage newspapers back 1912 to oral history gems, it’s all just a click away!
📚 Last but definitely not least, behold the heart of the Estes Valley – the Estes Valley Library! It’s not just a place for books; it’s a playground for the mind! From captivating Storytimes for the little ones to enriching workshops for adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Our library is also a hub of services designed to make your life easier and more convenient. Need internet access? Printing services? A quiet space to let your creativity flow? The library’s got you covered, with support from Trailblazer!
In the coming months, whether you’re streaming your favorite summer jams, sharing snapshots of your outdoor adventures, or simply staying connected with loved ones near and far, rest assured that Trailblazer Broadband has got your back, keeping our community plugged in and thriving every step of the way! 🚀🔌 Let the summer fun begin! 🎉🌞
Over the past few years, one of the most significant innovations impacting healthcare in America is the massive expansion of online telehealth services, the practice of providing healthcare remotely through technology. From increasing access to specialists to reducing the spread of germs among vulnerable populations, the advantages of telehealth are considerable.1
Improved technology has made telemedicine easier, even for those who don’t consider themselves computer-savvy.2 Also, a reliable high-speed internet connection, like the one provided by Trailblazer Broadband’s fiber network, is essential for good connectivity, communication, and diagnostics on a successful telehealth conference.
Whether you’re looking for a faster prescription medication refill or just needing professional advice on taking your child or loved one to a clinic for more urgent care, you’ll likely find that telehealth makes life both easier and more efficient for you and your family!
Telehealth’s Enormous Expansion
Given the benefits discussed above, it’s no wonder that more and more patients are enjoying telehealth platforms. In 2022, about 25% of all patients took advantage of telehealth services. Compared to pre-2020 figures (i.e., pre-Covid), that represents a fivefold increase from just 5% patient usage! And the convenience and advantages keep attracting new patients to telehealth, both in America and worldwide.
Indeed, according to one study, overall global telehealth revenue in 2023 was estimated at a whopping $120.4 billion. That same study anticipated total revenue will reach $285.7 billion by 2028, a staggering figure representing over 23% growth in just five years.
Telemedicine Benefits
Telemedicine offers numerous benefits:
- Convenience: Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for travel and reducing clinic wait times. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, busy schedules, or those living in remote areas.
- Accessibility: Telemedicine breaks down geographical barriers, enabling patients to connect with healthcare providers regardless of their location. This is especially important for people living in rural or underserved areas with limited access to healthcare services.
- Cost-effectiveness: Telemedicine can lead to cost savings for patients and healthcare providers. Patients save money on transportation, parking, and childcare expenses associated with in-person visits, while healthcare providers can reduce overhead costs related to maintaining physical facilities.
- Improved efficiency: Telemedicine streamlines healthcare delivery by facilitating quicker access to care, reducing appointment wait times, and enabling more efficient communication between patients and providers. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
- Continuity of care: Telemedicine allows for more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments, promoting better continuity of care. This particularly benefits patients with chronic conditions requiring ongoing monitoring and management.
- Reduced exposure to infectious diseases: Telemedicine reduces the need for in-person visits, thereby lowering the risk of exposure to contagious illnesses, including colds, flu, and COVID-19. This is especially relevant during public health emergencies and pandemics.
- Enhanced specialist access: Telemedicine enables patients to consult with specialists who may not be readily available in their local area. This expands access to specialized care and expertise, improving overall healthcare quality.
- Patient empowerment: Telemedicine empowers patients to take a more active role in managing their health by providing access to resources, educational materials, and remote monitoring tools. This can lead to better health outcomes through increased patient engagement and self-management.
Overall, telemedicine has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery by making it more convenient, accessible, and cost-effective while improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Telehealth Resources
Considering the value of telehealth services and the incredibly fast growth of the industry, it’s important to know how to access these resources. While Trailblazer doesn’t endorse or recommend any particular service, here are a few to consider:
- Local Options
Estes Park has several telehealth options in its backyard. Estes Park Health offers virtual visits, and UC Health offers Virtual Urgent Care throughout Colorado. Online assistance can be accessed through a computer or tablet with a working webcam, speakers and a microphone, or a smartphone. UC Health offers access to Virtual Urgent Care through its downloadable app.
- Teladoc
One of the original pioneers of telehealth in the early 2000s, Teladoc provides a variety of health and medical needs at all hours. You can reach out to Teladoc when you need their expertise, no matter the time of day (or night). Teladoc has been particularly recognized for its mental health services, so patients considering online therapy may want to check out its offerings.
- Amwell
Another thorough and nearly complete telehealth service to consider is Amwell. Amwell is best known for collaborating with the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic and is well-regarded for its Second Opinion Service. Amwell might be a good option for patients seeking another expert or diagnostician to provide an opinion or prognosis after a previous diagnosis. However, remember that Amwell and its additional services are on the pricier side, though they also work with many kinds of insurance.
- Doctor on Demand
Like Teladoc and Amwell, Doctor on Demand also offers access to physicians and medical professionals 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it easy to get appointments fairly fast. Doctor on Demand’s offerings tend to be somewhat more expensive than others, but its services are highly rated by users and are quite varied. Fun fact: One of the original founders of Doctor on Demand is the famous television personality Dr. Phil McGraw (“Dr. Phil”).
- Sesame Care
The most budget-friendly option on our list is Sesame Care. With Sesame Care’s online visits costing as low as $29 each, patients looking for more affordable telehealth will want to check it out. Sesame Care recently partnered with Costco, whose members receive even better pricing. Unlike the other telehealth services we recommend, Sesame Care does not employ an app to conduct consultations. Simply navigate to its website in a browser and follow the steps to book an appointment.
Making the Most of Telehealth Appointments
A reliable high-speed internet connection is critical to making the most of your telehealth appointment. Only a 100% fiber-to-the-home connection provides the same upload and download speeds. Upload speed is particularly important for video conferencing, where you need to be seen and heard effectively by the healthcare professional on the other end of the video conference.
Indeed, it’s not uncommon for doctors to decline to make a diagnosis if the video connection isn’t clear enough to assess the patient’s condition and symptoms confidently. Only fiber internet has the necessary speeds and generous bandwidth to convey the large amounts of data—video, voice, test results, medical charts, etc.—that telehealth consultations require, without interruptions that impede a proper medical assessment.
In this way, fiber ensures distortion-free video conferencing and clear communication between patients and healthcare professionals, regardless of which telehealth service you choose.
For a fiber internet connection you and your family can rely on, visit TrailblazerBroadband.com or call 970.577.3770.
1 “Benefits of Telemedicine | Johns Hopkins Medicine”
2 “Five Telehealth Services That Make Life Easier – S&T”
It’s every small business owner’s nightmare: opening a laptop or other device and discovering that ransomware or some other cyber attack is extorting their data and information. And with cyber attacks on the rise, more and more small and midsize businesses are coming to grips with the need to step up their own online and digital security.
Trailblazer brings fast, reliable 100% fiber directly into your business and leases the modem and router combination Nokia Gateway to facilitate service.
Beyond that, businesses and residents are responsible for setting up and managing their own internal networks. Basic elements of a computer network include hardware, software, and protocols. The interrelationship of these basic elements constitutes the network’s infrastructure, which may include multiple computers, terminals, printers, firewalls, data backup and storage, VPNs, ethernet cables, WiFi access points, and more.
At Trailblazer Broadband, we take cybersecurity extremely seriously, doing all we can to safeguard our high-speed fiber network at its source and keep it as reliable as possible. But individual internet users, including small businesses, must take precautions, too.
Below, we detail six of the ways small and midsize businesses can keep their devices, networks, and data—including their customers’ most sensitive information—protected from cyberattacks.
- Install Anti-Virus Software on Your Devices
Believe it or not, many small businesses fail to ensure that all their devices are properly protected with strong anti-virus software. While keeping the main server protected is paramount, other devices like laptops and tablets (and yes, even cell phones) also need protection.
McAfee, Norton, Kaspersky, and Bitdefender are four of the most popular and well-regarded anti-virus software programs available, and many small businesses rely on them. These companies stay on top of cyber threats as they emerge and have features and options to better customize protection depending on your business’s particular needs and potential exposure.
- Keep Your Software Updated
Your anti-virus software is only as protective as it is updated—so be sure to keep on top of it by regularly checking for and installing updates. But don’t forget to update the built-in security settings of your devices as well!
Operating systems, such as Windows and Mac, dedicate entire teams of software engineers and programmers to outwit clever cyber criminals and their latest schemes. They also test for previously unknown vulnerabilities in their operating systems’ codes, which necessitate frequent updates to overcome.
Though it can be a hassle to plan software updates for your business (and getting staff members to do so, as well), do not neglect this necessary part of doing business in the 21st century!
- Establish a Firewall
After installing anti-virus software, another way to make your small business’ cybersecurity more robust is to set up a firewall. Firewalls protect your system from viruses, malware, and ransomware before they enter the company’s network and jeopardize the devices and data connected to it. In a sense, the two measures—firewalls and anti-virus software—perform similar and complementary functions at different points in your system’s security.
A firewall helps prevent cyber threats from breaking through your system and network, while anti-virus software identifies and eliminates them once they are infected. Hence, ideally, a savvy small business will employ both anti-virus software and a firewall to improve overall protection.
- Require—and Enforce—a Strong Password Policy for All Staff
Let’s face it—no one wants to remember onerous and lengthy passwords when logging into devices and applications. But as annoying as it is, strong passwords really do make a significant difference in small business cybersecurity. Thus, it is essential that everyone in the business employs difficult and unique passwords for their login credentials.
And no, the family dog’s name with an “!” won’t cut it—especially if it’s also being used for every streaming TV channel, shopping app, and social media login already! Discussing the importance of strong passwords with your team is critical, as is modeling good behavior by regularly changing the passwords of even the most senior staff—and even the business’ owner, too.
- Consider Encryption
For businesses handling a large amount of sensitive information from customers and other third parties—especially credit card numbers, Social Security Numbers, and banking details—encrypting that data is essential.
There are many professional encryption software options available for small businesses. Check out the details for more specific information and pricing to find the best fit. Also, make sure that the encryption “key” is kept in a safe and easily accessible place!
- Set Up a VPN
Our final suggestion is to establish a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which can make remote access to the business’ server and network by staff much more protected. Once enabled, a VPN securely transmits all the data sent from and received by the business’ devices online through a secure “tunnel,” before reaching a private server, where that same data is encrypted before being sent out again on the internet.
According to many cybersecurity experts, businesses employing remote workers or staff that travel or work from public areas like airports, hotels, or coffee shops should view VPNs as a requirement, not an option. However any business can benefit from the extra level of protection a VPN offers.
It’s easy to get comfortable and let your guard down—but you’ve worked too hard to let cyber criminals take it all away from you. Implement these six steps as soon as possible to keep your company protected. If you need additional support with networking, you may want to review this list of Estes Park IT Contractors.
And if you haven’t already, be sure to call us at 970.577.3770 to find out how to connect your business to the fastest, most reliable internet network in Estes Park!
Trailblazer Broadband is not affiliated with and does not endorse any cybersecurity or networking provider or protocol.
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