John Schurz, President and General Manager, Orbitel Communications
The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic are universal, and the impact is being felt in every aspect of our daily lives. Most of our interactions with one another have moved from direct, interpersonal communication to digitally connecting. With our elderly living in isolation, adults working from home, kids encouraged to embrace e-learning, and our entertainment limited to what we can enjoy in our homes, there is more demand than ever for reliable broadband and telecommunications services. That’s why the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has called upon broadband service companies to commit to the Keep Americans Connected Pledge to reduce the risk of interruptions to broadband and telecom connectivity coast to coast during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Working in the broadband industry, I certainly agree with the designation of broadband service as essential to society. But as a citizen, I share all the concerns about needing to stay connected on a more personal level than ever before. To help manage the stress that can come from too little connection in some ways—and at the same time, too much in others—I’ve taken the following actions and urge everyone to be similarly mindful about their individual media consumption.
I am reminding myself to be a critical consumer of information. Now more than ever, consider the source for what you read and see. Rumors are being debunked daily about everything from which celebrity has contracted the virus to which home remedies protect against it. Choose outlets you trust to keep up on the latest safety guidance.
I also am focusing on using broadband for good, not just for news. There are many social media tools that allow you to see and hear your loved ones self-isolating in other places, and I have challenged friends and family to share a daily uplifting quote or story unrelated to the crisis. I have also been purposeful about downloading and streaming shows and movies that provide a positive distraction rather than fueling fear.
It has taken some creativity, but I have also worked to establish a routine. Gyms, schools, museums, zoos, and more are creating online resource lists, remote learning options, home workout routines, and digital tours. Bookmarking the sources of information that keep me updated, entertained, and engaged helps, and allows me to avoid getting sucked into “click bait” that sensationalizes and misleads.
Know that our Orbitel team is focused on keeping the network running strong and consistently. I am proud of our company and all our great team members for working to bring essential services to the homes, community support services, and businesses of our community. You can visit our website if you would like to learn more about our efforts and assistance offerings at orbitelcom.com.
I hope you and your families are staying safe, healthy, and calmly connected.
About Orbitel Communications:
Orbitel Communications offers cable TV with 120+ HD channels, fast high-speed Internet, Wi-Fi, and digital home phone services. Orbitel serves the communities of SunBird, Sun Lakes, Robson Ranch, SaddleBrooke, SaddleBrooke Ranch, and Maricopa, AZ. Residential and business services are available. The company is focused on enhancing the lives of its customers by providing the latest telecommunication services and maintaining the highest standards of excellence in customer care and world-class technical service. For more information, go to http://orbitelcom.com. Orbitel Communications Contact: Bryan Johnson,