When 95-year-old Carol Hara walked into the Chetco Community Library for Beacon Broadband and Chetco Community Library's first streaming class on June 11th, she carried more than just curiosity about streaming video services. As a recent graduate of Beacon's Connected Senior program, Carol represented how building digital confidence opens doors to even more technological adventures.

The inaugural streaming class, a collaborative effort between Beacon Broadband and the Chetco Community Library, drew a room full of residents eager to transition from traditional cable to more affordable streaming options. What made the day special wasn't just the money-saving tips – it was seeing people like Carol confidently tackle new technologies.

"Thank you for providing a computer course for our senior community," Carol recently wrote to Bill Gerski, Beacon's Vice President of Marketing and Sales, referring to the Connected Senior program. "Many of us seniors find ourselves challenged by the rapidly evolving digital world. Your free course provided us an opportunity to learn or relearn how to connect and do so safely." Carol signed her heartfelt note "a very Senior, Senior!"

Led by Beacon Broadband's Tori Powell, Technical Service Representative, the interactive session guided attendees through three simple steps to "cut the cord": preparing TV equipment for streaming, choosing the right streaming service, and adding on-demand platforms. The room buzzed with questions as residents discovered they could save hundreds of dollars annually while accessing live sports, local news, and favorite programming.

"Beacon Broadband had a fantastic turnout for this first streaming class," said Gerski. "In Curry and Coos counties, the digital divide can hit harder than urban areas, and with our demographic being primarily retirees, this partnership with the library creates the perfect environment for learning. Seeing Carol and other Connected Senior graduates confidently taking on streaming shows exactly why these community collaborations matter. We're not just providing internet service – we're building digital confidence one person at a time."

"Beacon Broadband wants to thank the Chetco Community Library for their wonderful support in hosting this event," added Gerski. "Community partnerships like this are essential as the company works to help residents maximize the benefits of their high-speed fiber internet service."

Beacon Broadband plans to continue offering these educational sessions throughout its service area as the company continues expanding fiber internet access. The company has been steadily expanding its fiber network throughout Coos and Curry counties, recently celebrating the milestone of connecting over 5,000 customers.

For residents interested in attending future streaming classes or learning more about Beacon Broadband services, visit beaconbroadband.com or call (541) 254-9265.
www.beaconbroadband.com