High Speed Internet Wireless Access Point available in Newkirk

Through cooperation with OneNet, Dr. Brian Whitacre of OSU Agriculture Economics, and Kay County OSU Extension, there is now a Wireless Internet Access Point available in the parking lot north of the Kay County Courthouse. OneNet, the comprehensive digital communications initiative of the state system of higher education, answered the call of the Keep Americans Connected Pledge by opening Wi-Fi hotspots to any American in need. OSU Extension County offices were asked to find locations that would be suitable for access points, and the Kay County Courthouse and Kay County OSU Extension Office fit the criteria.

“The State Regents and OneNet recognize that community internet access is critical to the success of students at all levels, from K-12 to CareerTech through higher education, and this collaboration will address the needs of both students and the community as a whole,” said Chancellor Glen D. Johnson. “We are proud to play a role in making this service possible in Newkirk.”

The internet is free to use to anyone who has a device that can connect to Wi-Fi. The internet is intended for business, school, or organizations. Simply find a parking space at the north lot of the courthouse, and safely access the internet by connecting to “Community Wi-Fi”. During the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. the internet will be available at speeds up to 5Mbps, which would be sufficient for checking email, searching the internet, or watching a video. After 5 p.m. the internet speed cap will be lifted to facilitate HD video, Zoom meetings, and streaming video. The connection will not be available after 11 p.m.

“OneNet is excited to partner with Dr. Whitacre, OSU Agricultural Economics and Kay County OSU Extension to bring Wi-Fi to the community in Newkirk. Rural Oklahomans should have access to the internet. Through this partnership, students can connect to learning, workers can apply for jobs and patients can access telehealth,” said Vonley Royal, OneNet executive director and higher education CIO.

“The latest data from the Census shows that less than 70% of Kay County households have an Internet connection, well below the national average of 83%.  The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated just how important a reliable internet connection can be. This Wi-Fi hotspot donated by OneNet demonstrates their commitment to providing connectivity that can improve the quality of life in communities across the state.” Said Dr. Brian Whitacre, Professor in Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University.

All users of the community Wi-Fi from this access point will be subject to content filtering provided by OneNet in accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). This protection must block or filter internet access to pictures that are: (a) obscene; (b) child pornography; or (c) harmful to minors. Additional categories may be discussed for the OneNet-provided content filtering. More information regarding CIPA guidelines is available at https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/childrens-internet-protection-act.

If you know a location in Kay County that has OneNet as their internet provider (public buildings, public colleges, state agencies, etc.), and would be willing to allow for a Wireless Access Point to be installed, please have them contact Kay County OSU Extension and speak with Shannon Mallory about getting started. Shannon is available at 580-362-3194 and via email at [email protected].

Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit https://eeo.okstate.edu/.

OneNet

As a division of the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, OneNet’s mission is to advance technology across Oklahoma. OneNet is the state’s internet service provider and serves colleges and universities, research centers, K-12 schools, libraries, tribal organizations, hospitals and clinics, nonprofit organizations and local, state and federal governments. Visit http://www.OneNet.net for more information.