From Pringles cans, to giant Easter eggs, UFO landing pads and even deep lakes, there are several fun facts about MCSnet and rural Alberta that we bet will make you go “oh that’s cool”. These interesting facts are part of the reason we love to connect rural communities to the world, while calling it home.
So, as we celebrate 30 years of serving rural Alberta, buckle up for 30 fun things about MCSnet and Rural Alberta that’ll make you smile, curious, and maybe even plan a road trip.
Quick MCSnet Facts
- Pringles Can Antennas: MCSnet’s founders initially used a makeshift antenna shaped like a Pringles can to test wireless signals, a testament to their innovative spirit.
- Family-Owned and Rural Roots: MCSnet began as a family-run business in 1995, in St. Paul, Alberta, emphasizing community values and personalized service.
- 30 Years Strong: MCSnet continues to grow as a family-run operation serving customers across Alberta and Saskatchewan.
- Seattle Internet Exchange: MCSnet connects directly to the Seattle Internet Exchange, home to the internet’s biggest players like Google, Microsoft, and YouTube, enhancing bandwidth capacity and ensuring reliable connectivity.
- Community Investment: A portion of every MCSnet subscription supports local nonprofits, including sports teams, agricultural societies, and community events.
- Educational Support: Through scholarships and community programs, MCSnet supports educational initiatives in rural Alberta.
- Pioneers In High-Speed Internet: In 2002, MCSnet became the first to bring high-speed internet to Alberta’s rural heartland, way ahead of the curve.
- Building The Future With Fiber: By 2015, MCSnet created a sister company, Buried Glass Inc., to expand fiber optic solutions across Alberta and Saskatchewan.
- Rapid Growth, Loyal Customers: MCSnet hit 25,000 customers in 2020, and now we’re nearing 30,000 with no signs of slowing down.
- Built, Not Borrowed: MCSnet is one of Canada’s largest privately-owned ISPs, with its own network of 500+ towers and 2,000+ km of buried fiber.
- Government-Trusted, Community-Focused: Since 2012, MCSnet has received $28M in grants to connect rural Alberta, and has matched that investment with over $30M of its own investments in infrastructure.
Rural Alberta Fun Facts And Wonders
- World’s First UFO Landing Pad: St. Paul, Alberta, boasts the world’s first UFO landing pad, symbolizing the town’s hospitality to all, even extraterrestrials.
- Vegreville’s Giant Pysanka: Vegreville is home to the world’s largest Easter egg, celebrating the town’s rich cultural heritage.
- Bonnyville Is A Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Jessie Lake in Bonnyville is a crucial stopover for thousands of migratory birds, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
- Cold Lake, A Natural Wonder: Cold Lake is one of Alberta’s deepest lakes, reaching depths of nearly 99 meters, and spans the Alberta-Saskatchewan border.
- Lac La Biche Historic Significance: Lac La Biche is one of Alberta’s oldest communities, established as a fur trading post in the 1790s.
- Athabasca, Gateway To The North: Athabasca was historically known as the “Gateway to the North,” serving as a key transportation hub during the fur trade era.
- Westlock Is An Agricultural Hub: Founded in 1913, Westlock serves as a central agricultural, business, and government administration center in Alberta.
- Barrhead’s Klondike Trail Connection: Barrhead was a significant trade center on the historic Klondike Trail, playing a vital role in the settlement of northwestern Alberta.
- Bon Accord, The Dark Sky Community: In 2015, Bon Accord became Canada’s first International Dark Sky Community, recognized for its efforts to preserve dark night skies.
- Redwater is home to North America’s largest free-standing oil derrick, known as Discovery Derrick No. 1.
Other Interesting Things About Rural Alberta
- Community Spirit: Rural Albertans are known for their strong sense of community, often volunteering at local events and supporting neighbours in times of need.
- Cultural Festivals: Events like the Pysanka Festival in Vegreville and other festivals celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Alberta’s communities.
- Agricultural Roots: Alberta’s economy has deep agricultural roots, with farming and ranching playing significant roles in rural communities.
- Natural Reserves: Alberta is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Banff and Jasper National Parks, showcasing its commitment to preserving natural beauty.
- Historic Sites: The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village and other museums preserve the rich histories of Alberta’s diverse communities.
- Artistic Expression: From community theatres to local art galleries, rural Alberta fosters a vibrant arts scene.
- Educational Opportunities: Rural communities prioritize education, with schools often serving as central hubs for learning and community events.
- Local Cuisine: Alberta’s rural areas offer unique culinary experiences, from farm-to-table dining to traditional dishes.
- Resilience And Growth: Despite challenges, rural Alberta continues to thrive, embracing innovation while preserving its rich heritage.
Connect with us on our social media channels and let us know which is your favourite fun fact, or better still, share something fun about MCSnet or rural Alberta you think everyone should know.
