Several years ago Vaughn and Lori Bauer wanted to open a restaurant in Paton, Iowa. They wanted something unique that would bring in travelers from all over the state. Six years later the dream has become a reality and has made quite a difference in the small community with a population around 230.
The restaurant, named 209 Main, is the actual street address where it is located in Paton. It includes a unique mix of contemporary and rustic details in an upscale and relaxing setting whether you are in the bar, the dining area or the spacious banquet hall. The hall holds up to 160 people and is a common area for parties, sporting event watch parties, wedding receptions, business meetings, family and holiday parties.
One of the aspects important to their success is access to rural broadband.
"Without broadband and the reliability of WCCTA it would basically shut down our business," states Jason Rogers, General Manager, 209 Main. "For example, ordering supplies is important. I can't simply run to the store and get some of the things I need to keep my business up and running. It's a lot of windshield time if I run out of cauliflower or french fries. If I have to make a special trip that cuts into the efficiencies of the business. Broadband enables us to be a modern restaurant in a small town."
Broadband offers critical conveniences for customers ranging from credit card payments and social media interaction to an online jukebox and streaming events. Even basic functions such as monitoring and adjusting the heating and cooling system is accessible online.
"We know we have the highest standards of technology at our disposal. I can't imagine running the business without broadband from WCCTA," adds Rogers.
Webster-Calhoun Cooperative Telephone Association provides Landline Telephone, Digital TV and Internet service to 16 rural communities on a Fiber driven network just outside the Fort Dodge, Iowa area: Pilot Mound, Boxholm, Lanyon, Paton, Churdan, Farnhamville, Gowrie, Somers, Moorland, Knierim, Barnum, Clare, Thor, Badger, Vincent, and Duncombe. www.wccta.net WCCTA is Gigabit Certified and designated a Smart Rural Community by NTCA: the Rural Broadband Association.