BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Fiber Broadband Association - ECPv6.17.4.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Fiber Broadband Association X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://fiberbroadband.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Fiber Broadband Association REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260729T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260729T103000 DTSTAMP:20260722T141610Z CREATED:20260722T141610Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T141610Z UID:10000764-1785319200-1785321000@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 30: Save Our E-Rate: The Fight to Protect Broadband for Schools and Libraries DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 30: Save Our E-Rate: The Fight to Protect Broadband for Schools and Libraries\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe E-Rate program has connected virtually every school and library in America to broadband\, growing classroom internet access from just 14% in 1996 to near-universal today. But for the first time in the program’s nearly 30-year history\, the FCC is asking whether E-Rate should be terminated. On this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, welcomes Joey Wender\, Executive Director of the Schools\, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition\, to discuss what’s at stake for anchor institutions and the fiber networks that serve them. Together\, they explore the FCC’s top-to-bottom E-Rate proceeding and the Save Our E-Rate campaign\, the pending Universal Service Fund litigation\, how BEAD and E-Rate complement one another\, and how schools\, libraries\, and providers can make their voices heard before the comment window closes. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-30-save-our-e-rate-the-fight-to-protect-broadband-for-schools-and-libraries/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260722T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260722T103000 DTSTAMP:20260709T205556Z CREATED:20260709T205556Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T205556Z UID:10000757-1784714400-1784716200@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 29: Right of Way Wars: Winning the Fiber Deployment Battle DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 29: Right of Way Wars: Winning the Fiber Deployment Battle\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs fiber deployments accelerate nationwide\, one major challenge continues to delay projects and increase costs: right-of-way and permitting issues. Too often\, broadband providers\, municipalities\, and contractors face unnecessary expenses and setbacks simply because they lack the expertise to navigate complex regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. On this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Dave Thomas\, CEO\, Eagle 1 Resources joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of FBA to discuss how industry experts can help teams strategically overcome right-of-way obstacles\, avoid costly mistakes\, and keep fiber builds on track. Register now! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-29-right-of-way-wars-winning-the-fiber-deployment-battle/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260715T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260715T103000 DTSTAMP:20260709T151747Z CREATED:20260701T192706Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260709T151747Z UID:10000752-1784109600-1784111400@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 28: Intelligent Oversight: How AI is Changing BEAD Compliance DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 28: Intelligent Oversight: How AI is Changing BEAD Compliance\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe BEAD program represents a once-in-a-generation investment\, but it also creates a major oversight challenge for state broadband offices. How can states ensure every project meets specifications without stretching staff or exhausting limited budgets? \n\n\nOn this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Colin Reilly\, Vice President of Data Strategy & Technical Services at Connected Nation\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss a smarter approach. Using a proprietary risk-modeling framework powered by machine learning and statistical sampling\, Connected Nation helps transform grant monitoring from a reactive burden into a proactive strategy. \n\n\nBy identifying high-risk projects early and using milestone-based checkpoints\, states and subgrantees can collaborate more effectively\, avoid end-of-project surprises\, and maximize the impact of BEAD investments while accelerating efforts to close the digital divide. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-28-closing-broadband-gaps-with-smarter-grant-oversight/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260708T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260708T103000 DTSTAMP:20260625T202325Z CREATED:20260625T202325Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T202325Z UID:10000747-1783504800-1783506600@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 27: Optical Fibre and Cable Market Outlook: The Role of Hollow-Core and Multicore Fibre DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 27: Optical Fibre and Cable Market Outlook: The Role of Hollow-Core and Multicore Fibre\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn this week’s episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Ahmed Ali\, Senior Analyst and Lead of CRU’s Optical Fibre and Cable Service\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss how AI\, cloud and data centre growth are reshaping the requirements placed on optical networks. While conventional single-mode fibre will remain the foundation of global connectivity\, some high-performance applications are beginning to push practical limits around latency\, capacity density\, signal integrity and physical infrastructure. \n\n\nThe conversation will examine where hollow-core fibre (HCF) and multicore fibre (MCF) fit within this evolving market\, including their potential role in data centre interconnect\, high-density data centre environments and other specialist network applications. The discussion will also explore demand trends\, early trials and commercial signals\, barriers to adoption\, and the latest market outlook covering supply-chain implications\, manufacturing scalability\, standards development and strategic considerations for fibre buyers and producers. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-27-optical-fibre-and-cable-market-outlook-the-role-of-hollow-core-and-multicore-fibre/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260701T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260701T103000 DTSTAMP:20260625T202209Z CREATED:20260623T131626Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260625T202209Z UID:10000740-1782900000-1782901800@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 26: The Quantum Edge: Why Fiber Providers Should Pay Attention Now DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 26: The Quantum Edge: Why Fiber Providers Should Pay Attention Now\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nQuantum networking is quickly moving from research concept to infrastructure conversation—and fiber providers may already hold the foundation. In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Professor Prem Kumar\, Director\, Center of Photonic Communications and Computing at Northwestern University joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to explore how existing fiber infrastructure can support next-generation quantum technologies. Drawing on recent breakthroughs in transmitting quantum signals alongside high-capacity classical traffic\, the discussion will examine how operators can leverage today’s optical networks to enable future applications including quantum communications\, distributed computing\, synchronization\, and secure data exchange. Learn why the path to quantum may not require rebuilding networks—but evolving the fiber assets already in place. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-26-the-quantum-edge-why-fiber-providers-should-pay-attention-now/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260624T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260624T103000 DTSTAMP:20260612T191530Z CREATED:20260612T191530Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260612T191530Z UID:10000737-1782295200-1782297000@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 25: Building AI-Ready Networks: The Next Evolution of Broadband DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 25: Building AI-Ready Networks: The Next Evolution of Broadband\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAI is transforming broadband networks from simple connectivity platforms into intelligent infrastructures that can predict\, adapt\, and optimize performance in real time. As AI applications drive new traffic patterns\, latency requirements\, and customer expectations\, service providers face both significant challenges and new revenue opportunities. On this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, welcomes Robin Olds\, Senior Sales Business Development Manager from Cisco’s Americas Service Provider organization\, to discuss what it takes to build AI-ready networks. Together\, they explore network modernization\, automation\, observability\, edge computing\, and strategies for monetizing AI-driven services. Register now! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-25-building-ai-ready-networks-the-next-evolution-of-broadband/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260617T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260617T103000 DTSTAMP:20260609T171651Z CREATED:20260608T142045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260609T171651Z UID:10000726-1781690400-1781692200@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 24: Fiber Technology Trends: Key Takeaways from S&P Global’s Annual Operator Surveys DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 24: Fiber Technology Trends: Key Takeaways from S&P Global’s Annual Operator Surveys\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFTTH technology is clearly the “end game” solution for wireline broadband access services\, however\, the speed and scope of operator migration to full-fiber networks varies widely\, depending on factors such as operator roadmaps and competitive landscape conditions. On the next episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Erik Keith\, Principal Analyst for Broadband Infrastructure at S&P Global Market Intelligence\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss key findings from S&P’s most recent global surveys of telecom and cable operators. The conversation will examine key factors in the ongoing evolution towards more pervasive FTTH network deployments\, including data points from both the telco and cable operator perspectives. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-24-fiber-technology-trends-key-takeaways-from-sp-globals-annual-operator-surveys/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260610T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260610T103000 DTSTAMP:20260601T173141Z CREATED:20260601T173141Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260601T173141Z UID:10000723-1781085600-1781087400@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 23: HyperFRAME Research Lens: State of I&O Strategy in AI Era 2H 2026 DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 23: HyperFRAME Research Lens: State of I&O Strategy in AI Era 2H 2026\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAI is rapidly reshaping enterprise infrastructure and operations (I&O)\, placing new demands on compute\, networking\, virtualization\, security\, and talent management. On the next episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Ron Westfall\, Vice President and Practice Leader for Infrastructure and Networking at HyperFRAME Research\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss new global research examining how enterprises are adapting I&O strategies for the AI era. The conversation explores how organizations are prioritizing investments\, scaling data and network infrastructure\, and addressing operational complexity to move AI from experimentation to secure\, production-ready deployment. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-23-hyperframe-research-lens-state-of-io-strategy-in-ai-era-2h-2026/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260603T103000 DTSTAMP:20260521T132130Z CREATED:20260521T132130Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T132130Z UID:10000714-1780480800-1780482600@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 22: Broadband Access and Home Networking Forecast DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 22: Broadband Access and Home Networking Forecast\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn this episode\, we explore the latest Dell’Oro Group Broadband Access and Home Networking forecast and what it signals for cable\, fiber\, and fixed wireless providers worldwide. After three consecutive years of revenue declines\, the market is projected to grow at just a 0.3% CAGR through 2030\, with another dip expected in 2025 before a potential rebound in 2026 driven by DOCSIS 4.0 and XGS-PON rollouts. Jeff Heynen\, Vice President of Broadband Access and Home Networking Research at Dell’Oro Group\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to break down what this means for network operators — from timing infrastructure investments and managing capital amid macro uncertainty to balancing fiber expansion with cable upgrades and planning for moderating bandwidth growth. The message is clear: disciplined deployment decisions over the next three years will shape long-term competitiveness and ROI. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-22-broadband-access-and-home-networking-forecast/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260527T103000 DTSTAMP:20260514T191937Z CREATED:20260514T191937Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260514T191937Z UID:10000706-1779876000-1779877800@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 21: New RVA/FBA Consumer Research: Fiber’s Role in a Disruptive Era: AI\, Video Proliferation\, and Counter-Urbanization DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 21: New RVA/FBA Consumer Research: Fiber’s Role in a Disruptive Era: AI\, Video Proliferation\, and Counter-Urbanization\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe 2026 study of the general public across the U.S. and Canada takes the deepest market research dive yet into attitudes toward and participation in AI\, as well as other emerging societal shifts. A key component of the study explores the evolving role of fiber as these trends continue to develop. \n\n\nJoin us for the next episode of Fiber for Breakfast as Michael Render\, CEO of RVA LLC\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss new perspectives on fiber’s current and future role. \n\n\nA deeper understanding of these paradigm shifts is critical for fiber manufacturers\, installers\, service providers\, and end users alike. Register now! \n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-21-new-rva-fba-consumer-research-fibers-role-in-a-disruptive-era-ai-video-proliferation-and-counter-urbanization/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260520T103000 DTSTAMP:20260521T132238Z CREATED:20260513T192441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260521T132238Z UID:10000705-1779271200-1779273000@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 20: Delivering the Nighttime Sky with Fiber DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 20: Delivering the Nighttime Sky with Fiber\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFar away from the urban centers of Dallas and Austin at the northern edge of the Texas Hill Country\, Coleman County spans nearly 1\,300 square miles with a bit less than 8\,000 people\, according to the 2024 U.S. Census Bureau estimate. With few people\, rural location\, and dry weather\, the nighttime skies are ideal for year-round astronomy with over 220 clear nights per year. How do you bring such a pristine viewing location to hundreds of thousands of hobbyists around the world? Fiber lights the way to the Milky Way and beyond. Join us to learn more. \n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-20-delivering-the-nighttime-sky-with-fiber/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T103000 DTSTAMP:20260512T143545Z CREATED:20260430T163731Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260512T143545Z UID:10000700-1778666400-1778668200@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 19: Fiber in the Fast Lane: Powering the Autonomous Future DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 19: Fiber in the Fast Lane: Powering the Autonomous Future\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAutonomous vehicles are moving beyond early pilot programs and driving a multi-million-dollar industry. Goldman Sachs Research forecasts that the robotaxi rideshare market will grow at a compound annual growth rate of approximately 90% from 2025 to 2030. While AVs make split-second driving decisions onboard\, low-latency fiber infrastructure is critical to supporting backend operations. Join Clayton Tino\, President & COO of Beep\, Inc.\, and Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, as they discuss how fiber powers the AV ecosystem—delivering the reliability\, scalability\, and efficiency required to operate at scale.  \n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-19-fiber-in-the-fast-lane-powering-the-autonomous-future/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260506T103000 DTSTAMP:20260429T162015Z CREATED:20260428T153650Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260429T162015Z UID:10000698-1778061600-1778063400@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 18: The Fourth Pillar of the AI Era DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 18: The Fourth Pillar of the AI Era\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs AI evolves from centralized data centers to massive\, distributed systems\, the physical layer—glass and photons—is becoming the true architecture of intelligence. \n\n\nJoin us on the next episode of Fiber for Breakfast as Allan Isfan\, AI\, Telecom\, and Streaming Executive at AI Squared\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to explore fiber as the “Fourth Pillar” of AI. \n\n\nTogether\, they’ll unpack how fiber serves as the nervous and circulatory system of modern intelligence\, why legacy networks are reaching a structural ceiling\, and what it takes for operators to evolve from bandwidth providers to AI architects. \n\n\nDon’t miss this deep dive into the infrastructure powering the AI era. Register now! \n\nWith Special Guest \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-18-the-fourth-pillar-of-the-ai-era/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260429T103000 DTSTAMP:20260415T204736Z CREATED:20260415T181054Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260415T204736Z UID:10000687-1777456800-1777458600@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 17: The Fiber Network Consolidation Wave: Are you ready? DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 17: The Fiber Network Consolidation Wave: Are you ready?\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe U.S. fiber market has entered a phase of consolidation\, with larger operators acquiring smaller networks at an accelerating pace. Integration can unlock scale and efficiency\, but execution risk varies widely by architecture\, technology stack\, and operational maturity. Which networks integrate cleanly—and where do problems emerge? Join us as Jack Burton and David Strauss of BSP Technical Advisors\, talk with Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, for a practical discussion on readiness\, risk\, and value creation. Register now! \nWith Special Guests \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-17-the-fiber-network-consolidation-wave-are-you-ready/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T103000 DTSTAMP:20260410T164743Z CREATED:20260410T164743Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260410T164743Z UID:10000685-1776852000-1776853800@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 16: Latest Trends and Developments in the North American Broadband Market - 2026 Edition DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 16: Latest Trends and Developments in the North American Broadband Market – 2026 Edition\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs high-speed internet becomes essential to daily life\, this episode explores Omdia’s latest report on what’s next for broadband across North America. The report examines emerging trends reshaping connectivity—from expanding rural access and improving home network experiences to evolving pricing models and intensifying competition. \n\n\nIn this week’s episode\, Gary Bolton\, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, is joined by Jaimie Lenderman\, Research Manager\, Service Provider Networks and Alzbeta Fellenbaum\, Practice Leader\, Service Provider–Consumer\, to discuss forward-looking strategies operators can adopt to strengthen customer loyalty\, attract new subscribers\, and drive sustainable revenue growth in a rapidly changing market. Register now! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guests \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-16-latest-trends-and-developments-in-the-north-american-broadband-market-2026-edition/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T103000 DTSTAMP:20260325T165715Z CREATED:20260325T165715Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T165715Z UID:10000673-1776247200-1776249000@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 15: Smart Funding\, Smart Deployment: The Strategy Driving 100% Coverage DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 15: Smart Funding\, Smart Deployment: The Strategy Driving 100% Coverage\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAffordability and access are converging in New Mexico’s broadband strategy. In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Jeff Lopez\, Director of the Office of Broadband Access and Expansion (OBAE) talks with Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the FBA\, about Senate Bill 152\, unanimously approved by the New Mexico Senate and recently signed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham\, creating the Low-Income Telecommunications Assistance Program\, the nation’s first state-level\, post-ACP broadband affordability program to help up to 27\,000 families afford service. \n\n\nLopez also discusses federal approval of the state’s $382 million BEAD proposal through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)\, which will connect 42\,500+ locations statewide. He explains New Mexico’s tech-neutral approach — blending fixed wireless\, fiber\, and low Earth orbit satellite — and how affordability and infrastructure together will drive the state to 100% coverage. Register now! \n\n\n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-15-smart-funding-smart-deployment-the-strategy-driving-100-coverage/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260408T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260408T103000 DTSTAMP:20260320T154448Z CREATED:20260320T154448Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260320T154448Z UID:10000671-1775642400-1775644200@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 14: The State of Broadband: What the Data Really Reveals DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 14: The State of Broadband: What the Data Really Reveals\n\n\n\n\nThe U.S. broadband market is entering a new competitive phase as fiber expands deeper into legacy territories\, fixed wireless scales across more markets\, and public funding accelerates network deployment. With tens of billions in federal BEAD funding flowing into broadband\, private capital fueling fiber builds\, and operators making billion-dollar investment decisions\, the stakes have never been higher. Yet much of the industry conversation still relies on incomplete data\, marketing announcements\, and anecdotal evidence. \n\n\nIn this week’s Fiber for Breakfast\, we take a deep dive into CostQuest’s two landmark Broadband in America reports to examine the real state of fiber deployment and competitive dynamics across the United States. Join Jim Stegeman\, President & CEO of CostQuest\, and Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, for a data-driven discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and offers actionable insights for industry stakeholders. Register now to join the conversation. \n\n\n\n\nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-14-the-state-of-broadband-what-the-data-really-reveals/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260401T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260401T103000 DTSTAMP:20260319T195259Z CREATED:20260319T195259Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260319T195259Z UID:10000670-1775037600-1775039400@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 13: Capacity\, Competition & Cash Flow: The Upstream Equation DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 13: Capacity\, Competition & Cash Flow: The Upstream Equation\n\n\n\nOn this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, hosted by Fiber Broadband Association President & CEO Gary Bolton\, we’re joined by Mark Trudeau\, Founder & CEO of OpenVault and Jeff Heynen\, VP of Broadband Access and Home Networking at Dell’Oro Group to unpack the 4Q25 OpenVault Broadband Insights report. \n\n\nFor the first time\, the report compares Fiber and DOCSIS subscribers\, revealing that symmetrical fiber speeds unlock significant pent-up upstream demand — with fiber users consuming 66% more upstream bandwidth. The conversation explores what this means for network investment\, capacity planning\, revenue growth\, and the growing impact of absolute traffic increases on operator networks. Get your questions ready and register to attend! \n\n\n\nWith Special Guests \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-13-capacity-competition-cash-flow-the-upstream-equation/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260325T103000 DTSTAMP:20260317T114208Z CREATED:20260316T202902Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T114208Z UID:10000666-1774432800-1774434600@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 12: Tight Today\, Transformational Tomorrow: A Historic Moment for Fiber DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 12: Tight Today\, Transformational Tomorrow: A Historic Moment for Fiber\n\n\nFiber demand has reached a historic inflection point. In this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Mike O’Day\, head of Corning’s Optical Communications business joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association and shares his perspective on a remarkable growth cycle as innovation accelerates and AI takes center stage. \n\n\nMike explains how broadband expansion and the rapid buildout of AI infrastructure are reinforcing one another — creating shortterm supply pressure\, but an even larger\, longterm opportunity for the industry. \n\n\nToday’s market is tight because the opportunity is big. Mike will discuss how Corning\, celebrating its 175th year\, is staying close to customers\, investing in capacity\, innovating to solve customer problems\, and strengthening partnerships with rural operators. Mike will also highlight Corning’s commitment to support BEAD with BABA-compliant components through the life of the program. \n\n\nMike describes a virtuous cycle where more AI infrastructure leads to new AI applications\, which fuels broadband demand — which in turn requires more AI infrastructure. \n\n\nThe takeaway is clear: BEAD and AI aren’t competing priorities — they’re part of the same growth cycle\, with benefits extending far beyond fiber to communities and the broader digital economy. Register now to attend! \n\n\nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-12-tight-today-transformational-tomorrow-a-historic-moment-for-fiber/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260318T103000 DTSTAMP:20260315T103809Z CREATED:20260306T130953Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260315T103809Z UID:10000661-1773828000-1773829800@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 11: AI and the Network Effect: Where Carriers Win Next DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 11: AI and the Network Effect: Where Carriers Win Next\n\nFor the past three years\, Omdia has modeled and forecasted the impact of AI on network traffic through a cross-team effort spanning business and consumer trends\, networks\, hardware\, software\, devices\, and facilities. In this week’s episode\, Brian Washburn\, Chief Analyst\, Telco B2B Solutions\, Omdia\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss Omdia’s latest AI network traffic reports\, including its surveys\, trackers\, and forecasts. \n\n\nAs AI accelerates\, network providers worldwide must strike a balance between protecting their core business—mobile and fixed connectivity—and participating in the broader AI opportunity. Brian shares his analysis of the significant challenges providers will face as AI reshapes network demand\, as well as where the potential exists to capture greater revenue from this adjacent opportunity—if they move strategically. Register now! \n\nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-11-ai-and-the-network-effect-where-carriers-win-next/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260311T103000 DTSTAMP:20260227T185427Z CREATED:20260227T185427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260227T185427Z UID:10000636-1773223200-1773225000@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 10: Mission Accomplished – or Mission Abandoned? Life After BEAD DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 10: Mission Accomplished – or Mission Abandoned? Life After BEAD\nAs BEAD funding moves from promise to reality\, what comes next for US broadband? In this timely conversation\, Carol Mattey – industry veteran and founding member/principal of Mattey Consulting LLC – joins President & GEO Gary Bolton of the Fiber Broadband Association to explore the long-term impact of the BEAD program and the future of connectivity. Join in the conversation as they examine whether gaps in broadband coverage will remain\, how LEO satellite services may factor into the equation\, and if today’s 100/20 Mbps standard will be adequate or need to be re-examined after BEAD projects are completed. The discussion also tackles who will ultimately be responsible for closing any remaining gaps – industry\, government\, or communities and whether the FCC’s Universal Service Fund could play a pivotal role. Register now! \nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-10-mission-accomplished-or-mission-abandoned-life-after-bead/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260304T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260304T103000 DTSTAMP:20260224T125039Z CREATED:20260224T125039Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T125039Z UID:10000645-1772618400-1772620200@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 9: Built to Last: Jimmy Todd on Nex-Tech’s 75 Years of Change\, Risk\, and Growth DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 9: Built to Last: Jimmy Todd on Nex-Tech’s 75 Years of Change\, Risk\, and Growth\n\nAs Nex-Tech marks its 75th anniversary\, Jimmy Todd\, CEO and General Manager of Nex-Tech\, joins Fiber Broadband Association President & CEO Gary Bolton for a conversation on what it takes to innovate and endure as a broadband provider in a rapidly changing technology landscape. Jimmy shares how Nex-Tech has transformed from a small telephone cooperative into a leading communications and technology provider\, pioneering fiber-to-the-home and expanding services across more than 11\,000 square miles of Kansas. Their conversation highlights the strategic choices\, industry leadership\, and commitment to rural communities that have defined Nex-Tech’s past and continue to drive its future. \n\nWith Special Guest \n  \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-9-built-to-last-jimmy-todd-on-nex-techs-75-years-of-change-risk-and-growth/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260225T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260225T103000 DTSTAMP:20260218T200509Z CREATED:20260218T200509Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260218T200509Z UID:10000639-1772013600-1772015400@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 8: Broadband Competition and Pricing Strategies in California Urban Markets DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 8: Broadband Competition and Pricing Strategies in California Urban Markets\n\nOn January 14\, 2026\, the California Public Advocates Office\, in partnership with the University of California\, Santa Barbara\, released Broadband Competition and Pricing Strategies in California’s Urban Markets. The study examines how large incumbent providers respond to new competition from fiber and fixed wireless entrants across California’s urban communities. \n\n\nIn this week’s episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, Ernesto Falcon\, Program Manager at the CPUC\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to unpack the findings. Drawing on market-level pricing data and deployment patterns\, the report shows that meaningful facilities-based competition—particularly from new fiber providers—drives lower promotional pricing\, enhanced service offerings\, and more aggressive customer retention strategies. \n\n\nConversely\, in markets without robust infrastructure competition\, consumers often face higher prices under effective gigabit monopolies. The analysis reveals persistent market concentration across many urban areas and underscores the need for policies that promote sustainable infrastructure competition\, pricing transparency\, and strong consumer protections. \n\nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-8-broadband-competition-and-pricing-strategies-in-california-urban-markets/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T103000 DTSTAMP:20260209T151153Z CREATED:20260209T151153Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T151153Z UID:10000631-1771408800-1771410600@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 7: The Hidden Infrastructure Behind AI and Hyperscale Networks DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 7: The Hidden Infrastructure Behind AI and Hyperscale Networks\nOn this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, we pull back the curtain on In-Line Amplifier (ILA) huts—the unsung infrastructure powering long-haul fiber networks. Michael Thomas\, Regional Vice President of Integration at Network Connex\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to explain how ILAs keep signals strong across hundreds of miles\, reduce latency\, and enable the rapid growth of AI and cloud services. They’ll also discuss why ILA placement is critical\, how these sites are evolving into micro data centers\, who’s building them\, and how they could create new broadband opportunities for rural communities. \nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-7-the-hidden-infrastructure-behind-ai-and-hyperscale-networks/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260211T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260211T103000 DTSTAMP:20260126T133432Z CREATED:20260126T133432Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T133432Z UID:10000610-1770804000-1770805800@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 6: Update on Virginia's Fiber Projects and Initiatives DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 6: Update on Virginia’s Fiber Projects and Initiatives\nVirginia was recently awarded $545 million awards in federal funding through the BEAD program to expand high-speed internet access across the state. The BEAD awards will enable 23 internet service providers to extend broadband infrastructure to more than 133\,000 remaining unserved homes\, businesses\, and community anchor institutions across the Commonwealth.  The Commonwealth is technology neutrality in its approach for expanding broadband\, though fiber projects are still projected to reach the majority of locations. On today’s Fiber for Breakfast\, Dr. Tamarah Holmes\, Director\, Office of Broadband\, Virginia ARC Program Manager joins Gary Bolton\, President and CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association to give us an update on her plans for addressing the digital divide in the state of Virginia.  \nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-6-update-on-virginias-fiber-projects-and-initiatives/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260204T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260204T103000 DTSTAMP:20260126T204638Z CREATED:20260123T183249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T204638Z UID:10000608-1770199200-1770201000@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 5: Monopoly in the Machine? AI\, Chips & the Battle for Network Innovation DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 5: Monopoly in the Machine? AI\, Chips & the Battle for Network Innovation\nAs AI adoption accelerates\, tech leaders like Nvidia and OpenAI are tightening control over the full technology stack—from specialized chips and cloud infrastructure to the AI models driving innovation. Our guest this week is Asad Ramzanali\, Director of Artificial Intelligence & Technology Policy at the Vanderbilt Policy Accelerator\, warns that this consolidation threatens competition\, innovation\, and the very infrastructure supporting communications. For network operators\, maintaining openness and interoperability across networks\, data centers\, and cloud platforms is critical to enabling 5G\, edge computing and AI-driven services. When a small number of firms dictate access to chips\, models and compute\, they risk creating bottlenecks and limiting agility. Join Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association as he and Asad unpack “the monopoly in the machine” and what telecom leaders can do to stay ahead.  \nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-2026-week-5-monopoly-in-the-machine-ai-chips-the-battle-for-network-innovation/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260128T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260128T103000 DTSTAMP:20260122T154446Z CREATED:20260122T154446Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T154446Z UID:10000607-1769594400-1769596200@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB 2026 Week 4: Cracking the Code on Broadband Coordination: Inside the Single View DESCRIPTION:FFB 2026 Week 4: Cracking the Code on Broadband Coordination: Inside the Single View\nIn this episode of Fiber for Breakfast\, we explore how Maryland is pioneering a first-of-its-kind “Single View” of all public broadband and digital infrastructure assets. This statewide platform centralizes planning and coordination by mapping everything from vertical assets and real estate ownership to existing networks\, connectivity gaps\, and future community needs. The approach is already delivering major results\, including more than $3.5 million in savings on a recent ARC broadband grant.  \nEric Bathras\, Chief Technology Officer for Maryland’s Office of Infrastructure\, joins FBA President & CEO Gary Bolton to explain how this Goldilocks strategy—one investment serving many needs—helps states optimize resources\, address un(der)served areas\, and support transportation systems and community anchor institutions.  \nRegister now to learn how a unified infrastructure view can accelerate broadband expansion and drive more cost-effective digital policy.  \nWith Special Guest \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-week-4-cracking-the-code-on-broadband-coordination/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260121T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260121T103000 DTSTAMP:20260116T125801Z CREATED:20260116T125801Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260116T125801Z UID:10000602-1768989600-1768991400@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB Week 3 with special guest Elizabeth Parks DESCRIPTION:FFB Week 3 – Parks Associates Consumer Study Highlights: Assistive Technologies for Older Adults and How Fiber Connects Independence\nAs the U.S. population ages\, the demand for solutions that help seniors live independently is accelerating—while the healthcare and senior care workforce faces a growing staffing crisis. In this episode\, Elizabeth Parks\, President & CMO of Parks Associates\, joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to unpack new research on the evolving market for independent living solutions for older adults. The conversation explores seniors’ desire for independence\, family caregivers’ awareness and expectations\, and the technologies gaining traction—from smart home systems and medical alerts to fall detection\, mobility aids\, home modifications\, and community-based services. Elizabeth shares key insights into adoption barriers\, trusted information channels\, and practical strategies to overcome challenges\, highlighting how connectivity and broadband-enabled solutions like fiber can play a critical role in supporting aging Americans.  \nWith Special Guest: \nElizabeth Parks \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-week-3-with-special-guest-elizabeth-parks/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260114T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260114T103000 DTSTAMP:20260109T174527Z CREATED:20260109T174527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T174527Z UID:10000597-1768384800-1768386600@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB Week 2 with special guest Brandy Reitter DESCRIPTION:FFB Week 2 – From Strategy to Sustainability: Colorado’s Broadband Approach to Reliability & Reach\nIn this week’s episode\, we’re joined by Brandy Reitter\, Colorado’s State Broadband Officer\, for a deep dive into the state’s broadband strategy following the “benefit of the bargain.” Brandy unpacks Colorado’s updated broadband plan\, highlighting how the state is using a mix of technologies to serve communities with diverse needs—including how tribal locations influence deployment decisions. \n\nShe also explains Colorado’s definition of reliable broadband and why it differs from the NTIA’s—offering valuable insight for providers preparing for the next funding rounds. Brandy joins Gary Bolton\, President & CEO of the Fiber Broadband Association\, to discuss and celebrate the critical role local ISPs and operators have played in Colorado’s success. \n\n\nFinally\, she looks ahead to priorities for non-deployment funding\, and how the state plans to build long-term resilience\, digital equity\, and operational excellence across all communities. \n\nWith Special Guest: \nBrandy Reitter \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-week-2-with-special-guest-brandy-reitter/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260107T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260107T103000 DTSTAMP:20260105T145733Z CREATED:20260105T145733Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T145733Z UID:10000594-1767780000-1767781800@fiberbroadband.org SUMMARY:FFB Week 1 with special guest Kathryn de Wit DESCRIPTION:FFB Week 1 – New Year\, New Connections: BEAD Moves Forward in 2026!\nAfter years of planning\, the BEAD program is moving from paper to pavement—but approval is only the start. In this first episode of 2026\, Kathryn de Wit\, director of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ broadband access initiative\, joins Fiber Broadband Association President & CEO Gary Bolton to examine what comes next as states begin building networks to reach nearly five million locations. Kathryn unpacks NTIA’s evolving guidance\, the “curing” process\, and the challenges ahead—from permitting and workforce shortages to supply chain pressures and non-deployment funding uncertainty. If you’re asking\, “proposals are approved—now what?” this episode offers timely\, practical insight into the work ahead and what it will take to turn BEAD’s ambition into lasting broadband impact. \nWith Special Guest: \nKathryn de Wit \n \n \n \n Register Now URL:https://fiberbroadband.org/event/ffb-week-1-with-special-guest-kathryn-de-wit/ CATEGORIES:Fiber For Breakfast,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://fiberbroadband.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/FFB_Banner-e1737140608224.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR