Smart Rural Community Award | Bruce Telephone Company

Bruce, MS (Bruce Telephone Company) Receives National

Recognition as Smart Rural Community

Bruce Telephone Company (BTC) has been honored with the Smart Rural CommunitySM Showcase award by NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, which cited BTC’s advanced communications services and collaboration with local leaders in agriculture, health care, public safety and education as keys to its success.

At a gathering of more than 2,400 leaders of rural telecommunications providers hosted by NTCA, BTC was honored with an award for deploying advanced technologies and leveraging those technologies to enable innovation in the areas of economic development and commerce, education, enhanced health care, government services, security and energy use.

“Bruce Telephone Company is prime example of the power of a broadband connection and a steadfast commitment to growth and prosperity,” said NTCA Chief Executive Officer Shirley Bloomfield. “Not only are the people of Bruce Telephone Company charting their own path to a more prosperous future, they are also creating a road map for many more communities across the country to follow suit. I commend the people of Bruce Telephone Company for these extraordinary efforts.”

The NTCA Smart Rural Community initiative recognizes and celebrates the efforts of rural telecommunications providers and their communities to deliver technologies that make rural communities vibrant places in which to live and do business. The goal of the initiative is to foster the development of Smart Rural Communities throughout rural America by recognizing trailblazers and providing resources to assist broadband providers and connected industries.

“We are pleased and excited to accept this award,” said Jay Vanlandingham, General Manager, who received the award on behalf of Bruce Telephone Company. “We have worked hard with our local leaders to ensure that our citizens have access to advanced communications and the many benefits those services enable. We look forward to building on our success for many years to come.”

BTC is the only entity in the state of Mississippi to be honored with this award. In 2016, BTC was “Gig certified” by NTCA, recognizing BTCs dedication to broadband innovation and insight in rural America.

About BTC

BTC has undergone a complete fiber network upgrade over the last decade, and now is able to provide gigabit internet services to more than 80% of their customer base in the Bruce and Calhoun County area. Local schools have dedicated internet connections and have been able to offer subjects through online courses that are not usually offered due to factors such as lack of funding or available qualified educators. As a result, Calhoun County has a thriving S.T.E.M (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Mathematics) team, and a future generation with a more well-rounded and broader education. State testing, online grade viewing, staff payroll, online lunch money manager, athletic compliance software, and more options are now available to the parents, students, and teachers to simplify many daily activities.

Several local businesses have been able to take advantage of the availability of high speed internet. Bruce Sweet Potato utilizes automation technology to monitor climate and ventilation in warehouses from anywhere, and sells potatoes across the country through his website. A once small, local business has grown into a major company, providing many jobs to the citizens of Bruce, and giving back to the local Bruce economy. Bruce is home to, and heavily reliant on, two large manufacturing companies, who together employ more than half of the Bruce population. Weyerhaeuser and Haworth, based in Seattle, WA, and Holland, MI, respectively, could not continue to operate without a direct, high speed internet connection to their corporate offices and other operating branches.

Many small businesses, including boutiques, professionals, grocery stores, and banks now operate more efficiently and profitably. An online presence allows local retailers to sell products to a larger area, as well as reach groups of people that may not have the time to shop their brick-and-mortar locations during operating hours. Merchants can process more transactions than before, thereby increasing sales. Local lawyers, insurance agents, and other professionals have access to more information and research, the ability to reach their corporate databases, as well as an online platform for advertising their services. Mississippi’s WIN Job Center located in BTC’s service area can now serve job seekers and job trainees more quickly, with application assistance and online training.

With fiber offerings, businesses, residences, and schools can do more. Whether a business is connecting to its customers or home offices, a homeowner is viewing surveillance imagery remotely or enjoying high-quality online video, or students are preparing for future success, BTC’s customers are being offered top of the line connectivity. There is no limit to what can be done with high-speed internet from BTC, and residents of Bruce are taking full advantage of available technology. BTC’s fiber network, as well as its safe community and small-town conveniences, have positioned the Bruce and Calhoun County areas to be desirable for families, and small and large businesses alike. Sustaining a wide variety of businesses and community anchor institutions boosts the local economy, allows students to discover new ideas, and permits thousands of Mississippians to enjoy a relaxed pace and friendly community. Access to the internet is quickly proving to more than a luxury item – most businesses and individuals rely upon internet access for communication, as is seen daily for many located in Bruce. Because fiber optic cable has infinite bandwidth possibilities, and is limited only by the electronics involved, BTC is well positioned for the future as the world becomes more closely connected.

About NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association

NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association is the premier association representing nearly 850 independent, community-based telecommunications companies that are leading innovation in rural and small-town America. NTCA advocates on behalf of its members in the legislative and regulatory arenas, and it provides training and development; publications and industry events; and an array of employee benefit programs. In an era of transformative technological advancements, regulatory challenges and marketplace competition, NTCA members are leading the technological evolution for rural consumers, delivering robust and high-quality services over future-proof networks that make rural communities vibrant places in which to live and do business. Because of their efforts, rural America is fertile ground for innovation in economic development, e-commerce, health care, agriculture and education, and it contributes billions of dollars to the U.S. economy each year. Visit us at www.ntca.org.

How much is the deposit for services?

We require a $50 deposit, plus $49.95 advance. If a customer signs up for autopay, the $49.95 advance is waived.
What do I need to apply for services?

You will need a government issued photo ID and the physical address for the location where services will be installed.
When do I get my deposit back?

If services are disconnected, it usually takes 3 months for deposits to be refunded to the customer.
Why is my internet running slow?

Providing customers with the best Internet service possible is our goal. However, Internet performance may vary due to conditions outside of our network control. Therefore, no minimum level of speed is guaranteed. Conditions affecting speed may include: customer location, physical equipment limitations, network congestion, server or router speeds of websites accessed, inside wiring or telephone conditions. You can check your speed at www.speedtest.net
My WiFi will not work through my entire home. What are my options?

This is a common problem with many different solutions. We suggest purchasing a WiFi extender and placing it in a part of the home that does not receive a quality signal. The extender should be close enough to your router/modem to receive a signal.
My modem/router lights are blinking, but I cannot access the internet."

If there is more than one device connected to the network, try another device to see if you can access the internet. If a different device is connected, try reset the device that has lost connection. If the first device does not connect after reboot, you will need to contact the customer support for that device to determine the issue. If you cannot access the internet from any device, unplug the modem for 30 seconds, and reset all devices connected to the network. If you are still unable to connect to the internet after resetting the modem and all devices, please call our office. A service technician will visit your home or business, usually the same day.
I am unable to surf. My screen displays “this page cannot be found”.

Disconnect the modem and/or router from power and wait at least 30 seconds before restoring power to both.
My streaming service isn’t working and I have a strong Wi-Fi signal.

We can verify that the connection is working as it is supposed to, and if you experience further issues, you should contact your steaming service for further assistance. Please note: We do not endorse any streaming TV services. Some video streaming services may be ‘pirate’ services. BTC’s Terms of Service prohibits illegal uses of the Broadband Service.
How do I password protect my router?

Smart RG Routers If you have a modem/router that is manufactured by Smart RG, your password will be the MAC address stamped on the bottom of your device. It should be entered in lowercase form. Comtrend Routers If you have a modem/router that is manufactured by Comtrend with only one antenna, your password will be the MAC address minus the first two digits. It is not case sensitive. An example would be 64680c6310eb If you have a modem/router that is manufactured by Comtrend with two antennas, your password will be the MAC address minus the first two digits. It is case sensitive. An example would be 720c6a4b55ea Trendnet Routers If you have a router that is manufactured by Trendnet, your password will be stamped on the bottom of your device, or a BTC technician may have placed a sticker on the top of your device that will have the “Wi-Fi key” on it. Note: these devices have to be setup after initial power. In the rare event the hard reset button is pushed, the initial process will have to be repeated. For more information, contact a Bruce Telephone Company Customer Service Representative at 662-983-4343.
Help! I have forgotten WiFi my password.

If the modem has WiFi, the password will likely be the MAC number on the bottom of the modem – depending on the make/model, it could include or exclude the first two digits. If you have a router only, your password will be on the bottom of the router. If you have problems beyond this, please call our office and a customer service represented will be happy to assist you. 662-983-4343
How do I turn the firewall on or off for my Window's computer?

There are several different types of firewalls and they all do the same thing: protect your computer from intruders. Therefore, it is very important to keep your computers firewall turned on and have an active antivirus program. To learn how to turn your firewall on or off on a Windows computer, check out Microsoft’s how-to guide.
How do I set up my BTC email on my smartphone?

Incoming mail server information: Host Name: inbox.brucetelephone.com User Name: your full email address (johndoe@brucetelephone.com) Outgoing mail server information: Host Name: outbox.brucetelephone.com User Name: your full email address (johndoe@brucetelephone.com) Password: your email password Use SSL: YES Authentication: Password Server Port 587
What internet speeds do you offer?

We have plans that fit most all customers, please visit our internet page for information.
How do I know I have the best internet plan for the number of devices I have?

Having multiple devices (computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, Blu-ray players, video game consoles and streaming set-top boxes) in daily use by several family members can easily max out your Internet service and make it seem like it’s running slow. For help determining which Internet plan is right for your household, please give us a call at 662-983-4343.
What is a firewall?

A firewall is a program or a device that blocks unauthorized access to your computer(s)/network, such as viruses, identity thieves, and hackers. Companies also use firewalls to control employee connections to the Internet and information being transmitted from their computers and network. In a nutshell, a firewall is like a computerized security dog that watches incoming and outgoing traffic and decides whether to allow a connection/interaction or not.
Is the modem price included in the monthly access fee or will I be charged a rental fee each month?

Rental fees are an additional maintainance cost charged each month.
Can I purchase my own modem that will work with BTCs service?

Yes. However, the customer assumes all responsibility with the configuration of the device. Our technician will provide technical support up to the point of verifying the service is working as it’s supposed to on one of your devices. If it’s determined by the technician that the customer owned device is causing the issue, further troubleshooting by a BTC technician may result in additional charges.
Who is responsible for the equipment if it breaks, and is there a warranty?"

If the customer rents equipment from our office, we will replace the device at no cost to the customer, as long as damage is not the result of customer negligence. Any equipment damaged due to customer negligence will result in a charge to the customer for the full amount of the equipment. BTC does not guarantee any customer owned equipment.
Do you know what the peak usage times are?

Yes, peak usage times are generally from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Is there a contract and what is the minimum length?

Yes, we require a 24-month agreement with all services.
Is there a fee for cancelling early?

Yes, there is a cancellation fee associated with all contracts. However, we understand that sometimes things are out of the customers control. In this event, it will be determined by the general manager whether or not the penalty will be implemented.
Is there is a usage limit each month? What are there penalties for going over, such as having my service slowed or cut off?"

BTC has truly unlimited data. We do not slow speeds or disconnect service, as long as the customer follows our terms of service as listed on our website. For full details, please visit our terms of service.
Does the modem act as a router, or provide wireless services?"

Most all devices to date provide wireless access.
How can I change my phone number?

Please contact our office at 662-983-4343 and we will be happy to assist you. Please note that changing your phone number may result in additional charges on your next bill.
How do I add my number to the "Do Not Call" list?"

Please click here to register you number on the Do Not Call list.
What month am I paying for?

Services are billed a month in advance, but your bill may also include any usage based services that are billed in arrears. For example, an October 1st bill will include October's phone and internet purchases, plus any services that accrued during the month of September, like Long Distance.
When will I receive my bill each month?

Customers will receive their bill on or around the 25th, giving you 15 days to pay in full.
When is my bill due each month?

Bills are due on the 10th of each month. If payment is not received by the 10th, a late fee will be added the following day. If payment is more than 30 days past due, services will be disconnected.
What additional fees can I expect on my bill?

A rental fee for the internet modem/router that our technician has installed at your home or business. FCC mandated charges and taxes. Other fees may apply in certain instances such as late payment or overdraft.
Why is my bill higher than expected?

Your first bill may be higher than expected, and what you will see on your usual monthly bill because of prorated charges (if you began service in the middle of a billing cycle), or any installation or equipment charges. If you are not a new customer and your bill is higher than expected, check your bill detail for any late payment fees, mandated charges, or rate changes. If you still have questions about your bill, give us a call 662-983-4343.