APRIL 25, 2025

Proposted bylaw Changes

District One Nominees

Elisha Downing

I’m truly honored to be nominated for the District 1 Director position.

My name is Elisha Downing, formerly Elisha German of Manchester, Oklahoma. I’m a lifelong resident of this area, raised on a family farm just south of Manchester. My upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for hard work, community, and service. My grandparents, Leland and Marlene German, and my parents, Jimmy and Lucille, taught us to value integrity, dedication, and the importance of helping our neighbors. My brother Austin continues our family’s legacy, managing the farm and livestock operation for the next generation.

I’ve spent the past 14 years working in EMS and currently serve as the Supervisor for the Alfalfa County EMS, Cherokee Station. I’ve also worked part-time in dispatch for the last six years. In my line of work, I’ve seen how essential strong communication is—not just for convenience but for survival. In emergencies, reliable telecommunications save lives. Whether it’s our EMTs, volunteer firefighters, dispatchers, or law enforcement, every second counts, and connectivity makes all the difference.

I’m married to Ross Downing, editor and owner of the Anthony Republican newspaper. Together, we’ve raised five incredible children—three adults and two boys currently in grade school. Family is everything to us, and we are blessed to be surrounded by a strong support system.

I am passionate about rural life and ensuring our communities have the resources they need to thrive—especially reliable internet and telecommunications. Whether it’s for school, work, farming, healthcare, or public safety, access to technology is no longer optional. It’s essential. That’s why I’m excited about the work Kanokla is doing and why I’m committed to doing my part to support that mission.

If elected, I will serve with honesty, dedication, and a deep commitment to our district. I would be honored to earn your vote and represent the values that make our rural communities so strong.

Thank you for your support.

Tateyn Rieger

Hi, my name is Tateyn Rieger and I’m honored to be nominated to serve on the board of Kanokla. My wife Hailey and I live west of Manchester, OK, not far from the family farm where I grew up. Hailey and I attended Burlington High School and graduated in 2020. From there I attended OSU IT and graduated with an Associate’s degree in applied science while going through an intern program partnership with Prairieland Partners in Anthony, KS.

I have worked as a Service Technician at Prairieland for the past 2 1/2 years while also helping out on the family farm. I have been apart of the Amorita Byron fire department since I was 18, serving as a firefighter and EMR. I enjoy working on things and getting outdoors enjoying God’s creation. My wife and I attend Driftwood Christian Church and I enjoy serving as a deacon there.

I have always lived in the country growing up and cannot see myself anywhere else. While it can be challenging being far away from the amenities that are available in a more populated area, I enjoy living and figuring out ways to make it work. The reason I want to become part of the Kanokla board is because I have grown up utilizing what they offer. I can see how much of a necessity rural broadband is becoming in our increasingly technologically motivated world. Living where we do, we constantly utilize internet for education, our jobs, ordering supplies, and communications for emergency services when cellular service isn’t available.

I look forward to the opportunity to serve on the Kanokla board to learn more about how the company works to provide internet for rural America. I’m a member of several cooperatives and understand the importance of how a cooperative works. I would be proud to represent district 1 and be the voice for Kanokla ‘s members.

Watch the full Annual Meeting

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District Five Nominee

Mark Schwerdtfeger

Family: Married 44 yrs. 

Vocation: Self-employed/Farmer 

Qualifications & Experiences: 
Self-employed as a farmer for 47 yrs. 
Operated a custom hay business for 45 yrs. 
Past Associate Director, Alva Farmers Cooperative 
Past Member, Capron Lions Club 
Retired Volunteer Fire Fighter, 1978-2014 
Past Board Member, Woods Co. Rural Water Dist.#1, 1986-2020 
Past Board Member, Cherokee Strip Museum, Alva, OK 2019-2021

Current Positions:
Director, Secretary/Treasurer, Capron Cemetery Association, Capron, OK 
Director, Kanokla Telephone Association (Kanokla)
Board Member, Northwestern Oklahoma State University Foundation 

Interests/Hobbies:
I enjoy doing light mechanical work on my own machinery; reading; traveling

Why are you seeking re-election to the Kanokla Board? 
I am seeking re-election because I would like the opportunity to continue to serve with Kanokla’s dedicated group of board members, management, and staff. I have gained valuable knowledge of the industry from attending meetings, educational seminars, and most importantly by working with the Kanokla team. It takes time to learn the history of the company, its policies, and how to navigate through the complexities of funding high-cost operations while facing regulatory challenges. The broadband industry continues to move at a very fast pace and the Kanokla team will continue to provide the best service available. 

As a cooperative, Kanokla exists for the benefit of its members and customers. Whether through providing state-of-the-art broadband service, donating resources for economic and community development projects, or volunteering to assist with community events, Kanokla is focused on this fundamental mission. It has been a privilege to be associated with this company, and I want to thank you for allowing me to serve on the board.